i think first prioity among the AHL players should be Ryan Stone and/or Jonathan Filewich, i think they would be great additions to the hockey team if for some reason we cant resign some of our NHLer (cant resign them all) before id sign Hossa id go after Malone. I say let conklin walk, im grateful for wat he did but we got sabo who was a good backup and we got people like john curry in the minors waiting for a chance.

id get ruutu and orpik back for sure they have earned a bigger paycheck. then there are people like adam hall and pascal dupuis, good penalty killers and dupuis played well with crosby but i think that people like Tim Brent and Ryan Stone (even kennedy could PK) could fill these roles nicely. i think another year for Bissonnette then he could take over as our BIG D-man.

eaton i let go, i always like eaton when he played and was prob our best Defensive Dman but the problem was he could never stay healthy. If Roberts wants to come back obviously lets get him a extenstion, if he likes it here i think he deserves to finsih his career here whether it be this year or next year or a couple of years.

oh ya he is the link http://www.nhlscap.com/

If George Laraque still has it him in to do what it is that we ask him to do then lets resign him if not im sure there is another younger enforcer you would love the opportunity to protect Sid and Geno

SteelCityMan786

06-05-2008, 11:57 PM

Unrestricted
Marian Hossa-Signs if he is willing to go for a lower price
Gary Roberts-May have sour taste in the mouth over loss, but don't expect him back
Mark Eaton-Too Few Games to tell
Ryan Malone-Should stay if Hossa does not or take a hometown discount
Georges Laraque-Made a decent case to stay
Jarkko Ruutu-Could be a great future asset
Brooks Orpik-A needed Defensemen. He could get better over time
Pascal Dupuis-Looks like he is one of those who want to stay
Kris Beech-Gone
Adam Hall-Could Sign a 2 Way
Alain Nasredine (AHL)-Needs more time with WBS
Ty Conklin-Would be dominant force behind Fleury if he goes down or needs a day off
Nathan Smith (AHL)-Questionable
Connor James (AHL)-Questionable

Unrestricted
Marian Hossa - Gone. He will ask for and get $8 million per season from another team
Gary Roberts - Will be back if he wants one last shot at the Cup, but will have to be for much less than $2.5 million
Mark Eaton - Gone. Too injury prone.
Ryan Malone - Must be re-signed, and his price shouldn't matter. Too important on the ice and in the locker room as a leader
Georges Laraque - Will be back
Jarkko Ruutu - Iffy on this one. Like Orpik, he had his moments with Therrien and may hinge his return on Therrien's status
Brooks Orpik - Would love to keep him, but his stormy relationship with Therrien plus teams (Rangers, anyone?) throwing big money at him means he's gone. Both him and Eaton leaving makes room for Alex Goligoski to make the Pens next season
Pascal Dupuis - Will be back
Kris Beech - Gone
Adam Hall - Will be back
Alain Nasredine (AHL) - Will be kept for depth
Ty Conklin - Gone, and I hope he's rewarded handsomely for the job he did keeping the Pens afloat while Fleury was out
Nathan Smith (AHL) - Captain of the Baby Pens, will be back
Connor James (AHL) - Will be back

Restriced Free Agents
Marc-Andre Fleury- Arbitration Eligible at the expiration of the current contract - Will get megabucks before July 1
Ryan Stone (AHL) - Will be back
Jonathan Filewich (AHL) - Will be back
Daniel Fernholm (AHL) - Gone
Paul Bissonnette (AHL) - Will be back
Patrick Ehelechner (AHL) - Gone. David Brown will be the backup at WBS to John Curry
Tim Brent (AHL) - Will be back and will probably have a legit shot at making the big club
Tim Wallace (AHL) - Will be back
Mark Ardelan (AHL) - Unsure.

Lord Stiller

06-06-2008, 09:50 AM

top priority is to lock up our young core which is: Fleury, Malkin and Staal

the next 3 key guys we stand to lose are: Hossa, Malone and Orpik. I like Hossa a lot but he is a goner. He will demand a lot and we will already have spent top dollar on Crosby and Malkin. Malone is also likely a goner (someone will overpay him) unless he takes a hometown discount. Orpik is also likely a goner because he is one of the top dman free agents and he hates Therrian. Although, I think Shero and the Pens should really push hard to keep Orpik.

Losing our 2 toughest players (Orpik and Malone) is bad news

Also, look for Goligoski to be on the team next year

2 wingers that are free agents that we should look at are: Brian Rolston nad Michael Ryder. Both are good and can score and will be cheaper than Hossa and Malone

I still cant picture this team without Malone. C'mon Bugsy, take a hometown discount and stay! The cost of living is cheaper in da 'burgh :)

BettisFan

06-08-2008, 09:04 PM

for sure Stall, Crosby, Malkin and Fluery are our team to build on besides that lets hope for the best

X-Terminator

06-09-2008, 02:27 AM

Well, I've just read a rumor about the Pens trading Malkin to L.A. Ray Ferraro, former Pens' winger turned analyst, seems to believe that they would pull the trigger on the deal because he doesn't think that they'd be able to pay him what he's worth and still keep Hossa, Malone and Orpik, and re-sign Fleury to an extension. Well Ray, I think you took too many elbows to the head as a player. The Pens absolutely WILL NOT trade Malkin, and would gladly let Hossa, Malone and Orpik walk in order to keep him. They can bring other guys in to fill in the holes, but they MUST keep the core together, and that includes Malkin. If it means he gets as much or more than Sid, which he has asked for, then that's what the Pens will do.

Lord Stiller

06-09-2008, 10:09 AM

sign Malkin, let Hossa walk

If we get rid of Malkin, I may no longer be a Pens fan. Malkin showed the potential this year to be better than Ovechkin and Crosby

pittsburghp8baller

06-09-2008, 10:17 AM

Well, I've just read a rumor about the Pens trading Malkin to L.A. Ray Ferraro, former Pens' winger turned analyst, seems to believe that they would pull the trigger on the deal because he doesn't think that they'd be able to pay him what he's worth and still keep Hossa, Malone and Orpik, and re-sign Fleury to an extension. Well Ray, I think you took too many elbows to the head as a player. The Pens absolutely WILL NOT trade Malkin, and would gladly let Hossa, Malone and Orpik walk in order to keep him. They can bring other guys in to fill in the holes, but they MUST keep the core together, and that includes Malkin. If it means he gets as much or more than Sid, which he has asked for, then that's what the Pens will do.

do u got a link to where that was said or was that on TV somewhere?

pittsburghp8baller

06-09-2008, 10:18 AM

nevermind triplepost

pittsburghp8baller

06-09-2008, 10:19 AM

double post

pittsburghp8baller

06-09-2008, 10:24 AM

http://www.thefourthperiod.com/news/pit080606.html

Penguins shift focus to contracts
TheFourthPeriod.com

With little time to digest their success this past season, the Penguins' management brass has to focus on re-signing some of its players before the market doors open.
Forwards Marian Hossa, Ryan Malone, Gary Roberts, Jarkko Ruutu and Pascal Dupuis can all become unrestricted free agents July 1, along with defenseman Brooks Orpik and goalie Ty Conklin.

The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports the Penguins will make a serious effort to try and keep Hossa. However, the paper notes the Pens will only be able to keep him if he accepts less than he could get on the open market.

Malone and Orpik have likely spent their final days in a Penguins uniform, as both are expected to sign elsewhere this summer due to salary demands.
The Tribune-Review suggests Orpik could triple his $1.075 million salary via free agency, while Malone ($1.45 million) could do the same.

Roberts is expected to retire, while the Penguins won't overpay to keep Ruutu and Dupuis, according to the paper.

Georges Laraque, Adam Hall, Mark Eaton, Jeff Taffe and Kris Beech are also set to become UFAs.

Meanwhile, the Penguins will also have to focus on re-signing restricted free agent Marc-Andre Fleury.

Fleury made $1.6 million this season and the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports the Penguins will retain his services, even if another team signs him to an offer-sheet -- at that point, the Pens would match any offer.

steelersfanman92

06-09-2008, 10:40 AM

They wont let malkin go he is to big of a peice of the franchise
and hope Orpik resigns the Pens really need to improve their D and he can really help

pittsburghp8baller

06-09-2008, 10:49 AM

They wont let malkin go he is to big of a peice of the franchise
and hope Orpik resigns the Pens really need to improve their D and he can really help

orpik could be receiving 4 or 5 million dollars in the free agency market and the pens wont be likely to match it. anyways it is well known that him and therrien dont see eye to eye.

if we must trade malkin (has much as i hate to admit it and its looking more likely that we may) and we can get some1 like jack johnson (LAK) out of it, it might actually help us. think of a younger, higher scoring brooks orpik thats what u get in jack johnson (third overall pick). dont get me wrong if there was anyway to keep crosby and malkin while keeping a winning team id say go for it, but malkin is reportely asking for at or around the same amount as Alex Ovechkin is making. and if malkin is making that much, and crosby is making 8.7, whitney 4 and whatever we sign fleury too (then there is staal) i dont see how we can put a decent winning team together with that much cap room taken up in so few players, unless we see a giant leap in the salary cap

pittsburghp8baller

06-09-2008, 10:54 AM

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jack_Johnson_(ice_hockey)

good bio on jack johnson (love malkin but like i said if we must trade him and it looks like we will id love to have some1 like johnson)

would prob fit right in has been best friends with Sidney Crosby ever since they played at Shattuck-St. Mary's prep school in Minnesota (Crosby played 1 season and won the national chmapionship)

BettisFan

06-09-2008, 11:14 AM

we better keep malkin

pittsburghp8baller

06-09-2008, 11:57 AM

we better keep malkin

id love for us to keep malkin but with the salary and the fact that malkin is gonna be wanting at least 9 mil a year its gonna be hard for us to keep a competitive team with all of our money in so few people (Crosby 8.7; Whitney 4; lets say Malkin 9; and lets jus say Staal/Fleury combine for around 12-13 million together thats 30+ million in 5 people, i dont see how we compete for a cup with that much money put into 5 people).

Lord Stiller

06-09-2008, 01:49 PM

id love for us to keep malkin but with the salary and the fact that malkin is gonna be wanting at least 9 mil a year its gonna be hard for us to keep a competitive team with all of our money in so few people (Crosby 8.7; Whitney 4; lets say Malkin 9; and lets jus say Staal/Fleury combine for around 12-13 million together thats 30+ million in 5 people, i dont see how we compete for a cup with that much money put into 5 people).

dont forget Gonchar at 5 million

we're keeping Malkin. He is awesome

pittsburghp8baller

06-09-2008, 02:15 PM

dont forget Gonchar at 5 million

we're keeping Malkin. He is awesome

thats right him too (im sure we may end up shopping him around we have some D-man in juniors and college and even in the AHL.

and im not doubting Malkin's talent. he is a beast, one of the best in the NHL by far. im jus saying its gonna be hard for us to keep all of this talent and we might has well get some talent rather than letting them walk if we cant reach their demands.

Go figure we can finally afford to keep alot of these players and what do u kno there is a salary cap

pittsburghp8baller

06-09-2008, 02:21 PM

sign Malkin, let Hossa walk

If we get rid of Malkin, I may no longer be a Pens fan. Malkin showed the potential this year to be better than Ovechkin and Crosby

Welcome to the new NHL, we cant keep every1 especially two top world class players like crosby/malkin.

im jus gonna find it hard for us to compete year in and year out if our money is locked into so few people.

Lord Stiller

06-09-2008, 02:26 PM

thats right him too (im sure we may end up shopping him around we have some D-man in juniors and college and even in the AHL.

We can NOT trade Gonchar, he has a no trade clause

What's the deal with Fleury? I believe he becomes a RFA on july 1st right? We need to start negotiating NOW.

how does 6 yrs, 30 million sound?

I'm worried some team will offer something way too high that we cant match so we should sign him now right?

pittsburghp8baller

06-09-2008, 02:53 PM

We can NOT trade Gonchar, he has a no trade clause

What's the deal with Fleury? I believe he becomes a RFA on july 1st right? We need to start negotiating NOW.

how does 6 yrs, 30 million sound?

I'm worried some team will offer something way too high that we cant match so we should sign him now right?

than i guess we let him walk in 2 years or whenever his contract runs out.

6 years 30 million sounds fair, but im sure some teams would be willing to spend more than that to get him. (chicago; la kings; st. louis; toronto jus a couple who might try and outbid us)

Lord Stiller

06-09-2008, 03:24 PM

I wish we would have resigned Orpik instead of Whitney last year

Lord Stiller

06-09-2008, 03:25 PM

than i guess we let him walk in 2 years or whenever his contract runs out.

exactly. he has 2 more years, and im glad cuz he played great.

plus Malkin lives with him!

pittsburghp8baller

06-09-2008, 05:22 PM

I wish we would have resigned Orpik instead of Whitney last year

id much rather would of signed Orpik rather than Whitney. espeically with Letang emerging as such a great d-man, and with D-man like goligoski and brian strait; kevin veliuex (college; QMJHL) could end being great D-man;

X-Terminator

06-09-2008, 08:06 PM

do u got a link to where that was said or was that on TV somewhere?

No link, sorry. The person who posted read it in his local Canadian newspaper. The rumored trade according to Ferraro was Malkin to L.A. for RW Dustin Brown, D Jack Johnson and a draft pick or another player. If - and this is only an IF - they decided to trade him, I would make that deal. Brown is a young, physical power forward who hits everything that moves and scored over 30 goals last year on a horrible team, plus he's signed through 2014 @ $4 million per season. Johnson is an up-and-coming physical defenseman along the lines of Orpik, and would ease the pain of losing Orpik if that were to happen. And I'd accept no less than a 1st round pick, either in this year's or next year's draft, both of which are very deep with talent. At some point, they may have no choice but to trade him, unfortunately, so I hope Shero gets as much as he can for him.,

X-Terminator

06-09-2008, 08:19 PM

than i guess we let him walk in 2 years or whenever his contract runs out.

6 years 30 million sounds fair, but im sure some teams would be willing to spend more than that to get him. (chicago; la kings; st. louis; toronto jus a couple who might try and outbid us)

Fleury will not get $5 million a season from the Penguins. That is getting up toward what some of the elite goalies in the league make (Lundqvist, Kiprusoff, Nabokov), and his playoff performance notwithstanding, he is not yet in elite status. I say he gets a 5-year, $22.5 million deal.

Lord Stiller

06-09-2008, 09:31 PM

id much rather would of signed Orpik rather than Whitney. espeically with Letang emerging as such a great d-man, and with D-man like goligoski and brian strait; kevin veliuex (college; QMJHL) could end being great D-man;

Exactly, my point was we have an abundance of offensive defensemen (Gonchar, Whitney, Letang, Goligoski) which is why i want to keep the one really tough guy we have Orpik

trading Whitney is a possibility

pittsburghp8baller

06-09-2008, 11:29 PM

No link, sorry. The person who posted read it in his local Canadian newspaper. The rumored trade according to Ferraro was Malkin to L.A. for RW Dustin Brown, D Jack Johnson and a draft pick or another player. If - and this is only an IF - they decided to trade him, I would make that deal. Brown is a young, physical power forward who hits everything that moves and scored over 30 goals last year on a horrible team, plus he's signed through 2014 @ $4 million per season. Johnson is an up-and-coming physical defenseman along the lines of Orpik, and would ease the pain of losing Orpik if that were to happen. And I'd accept no less than a 1st round pick, either in this year's or next year's draft, both of which are very deep with talent. At some point, they may have no choice but to trade him, unfortunately, so I hope Shero gets as much as he can for him.,

if we were left no choice that would be a steal. dustin brown, jack johnson and a first rounder!! holy crap, ive been talking about dustin brown for a while now; him and jack johnson are gonna be mainstays on team USA for a long time now. jack johnson is brooks orpik who scores a lot more and if we get their first rounder this year we get the #2 overall pick making us able to not only pick in the first round but also getting Nikita Filatov, the top european player and has shown to be a very close second to steven stamkos. he may not be ready right away (jus turned 18 in may but it will be soon maybe he will be on the AHL squad by end of season/playoff time)

of course i guess this is all speculation and i dont want any1 to be mistaken; malkin is one of my favorite players on the pens, but business is business, with the new salary cap its gonna be hard to keep all of these players and keep competing for the cup every year and if we are gonna end up losing malkin than id would much rather get all of this talent than nothing.

pittsburghp8baller

06-09-2008, 11:32 PM

Fleury will not get $5 million a season from the Penguins. That is getting up toward what some of the elite goalies in the league make (Lundqvist, Kiprusoff, Nabokov), and his playoff performance notwithstanding, he is not yet in elite status. I say he gets a 5-year, $22.5 million deal.

thats a fair amount; but we are worried bout a team jumping up overbidding him. now fleury doesnt seem like a guy that will jump ships jus for money but these days u never kno.

BettisFan

06-10-2008, 12:21 AM

Marian Hossa (or his agent) would reject an enormous, multi-year contract as an unrestricted free agent to re-sign with the Pittsburgh Penguins for less money is mind-boggling, even if he proclaims his love for the franchise and the fun he had playing with Sidney Crosby. I love his attitude and I really hope he stays.

pittsburghp8baller

06-10-2008, 11:54 AM

i found a link talking about the possible malkin trade; never heard of this guy and dont know how good his sources are but they talked about it on a sports show, so their has got to be some sort of source

http://rumormethis.com/rumors/player-rumors/malkin-on-the-move/

Nick Kypreos reported on Sportsnet’s 6:30PM edition that that the Pittsburgh Penguins are shopping one of their young stars.

According to a person that’s in the know, the Penguins have discussed moving forward Evgeni Malkin with an unnamed Western Conference team.

Kypreos noted the fact that Malkin’s entry-level contract is coming to an end after next year, and the Penguins may not be able to afford his next salary as the reason for shopping him.

Should Malkin win any type of an award, Kypreos suggests that Malkin may seek $10 mil per season. Since the Penguins already have Sidney Crosby tied up at an average of $8.7 million for the next six years and with the likes of Ryan Malone (possibly looking for $4 million per season) and other free agents demanding significant raises, the Penguins may look to deal Malkin.

Kypreos brought up a trade scenario involving Los Angeles Kings forwards Anze Kopitar and Dustin Brown, though it was more of a proposal than anything that’s being discussed.

More to come…

X-Terminator

06-10-2008, 06:42 PM

i found a link talking about the possible malkin trade; never heard of this guy and dont know how good his sources are but they talked about it on a sports show, so their has got to be some sort of source

http://rumormethis.com/rumors/player-rumors/malkin-on-the-move/

Nick Kypreos is a former NHL player and enforcer whose career ended with a brutal KO at the hands of former Penguin Ryan VandenBussche. It was one of the most devastating KOs in the history of the game. He is now working primarily for TSN as a hockey analyst. Here is the KO in question:

1QHaTxgvTn8

At any rate, we now have two people who believe Malkin is going to be traded, which means it at least is being considered. Kopitar and Brown would be a good return, but I still think they have to try to pry Jack Johnson away from the Kings in any deal. Brown, Johnson and a pick to me would be the deal to make.

pittsburghp8baller

06-10-2008, 06:58 PM

i have heard it from another person too, so i guess that makes three so i think this might actually happen; i think anze kopitar is an amazing player but id rather go for the brown/jackson/draft pick deal instead. johnson could be a replacement for Orpik and he could get time on the power play if whitney contiunes to struggle playing the power play.

Lord Stiller

06-11-2008, 08:59 AM

if the deal to LA happened, i would definitely want atleast Jack Johnson and 1 forward (Kopitar, Brown or Frolov). Jack Johnson is the deal breaker imo. He is very valuable

there has been reported talk of trading one of our UFA's to Columbus. Im guessing its either Malone or Orpik or both. good move imo, if we are going to lose them atleast get something in return

X-Terminator

06-11-2008, 10:07 AM

if the deal to LA happened, i would definitely want atleast Jack Johnson and 1 forward (Kopitar, Brown or Frolov). Jack Johnson is the deal breaker imo. He is very valuable

there has been reported talk of trading one of our UFA's to Columbus. Im guessing its either Malone or Orpik or both. good move imo, if we are going to lose them atleast get something in return

Who the hell does Columbus have that we could possibly need? If his first name isn't Rick and his last name Nash, I'm not interested in anyone they have. That team sucks for a reason.

OK, I take that back - I'd maybe take Nikolai Zherdev and/or Ole-Kristian Tollefsen, but that's about it.

Lord Stiller

06-11-2008, 12:00 PM

Who the hell does Columbus have that we could possibly need? If his first name isn't Rick and his last name Nash, I'm not interested in anyone they have. That team sucks for a reason.

if we aren't going to sign either Malone or Orpik, why not trade their rights to Columbus before July 1st? likely for a draft pick

it's a no brainer

last year, Nashville trades rights to Timonen and HArtnell to philly for a 1st rd pick

pittsburghp8baller

06-11-2008, 12:01 PM

Who the hell does Columbus have that we could possibly need? If his first name isn't Rick and his last name Nash, I'm not interested in anyone they have. That team sucks for a reason.

OK, I take that back - I'd maybe take Nikolai Zherdev and/or Ole-Kristian Tollefsen, but that's about it.

id def take Nikki Z; he is a future 30-40 goal scorer and on Crosby Wing maybe a 40-50 goal scorer.

as for it geing to LA i think it would have to be dustin brown/jack johnson/a draft pick (not a deal breaker if we dont get one id be nice though). kopitar is in the same boat as Malkin. though he prob wont be worth 10 mil, his contract is up after next season too and it should take a giant leap.

pittsburghp8baller

06-11-2008, 12:13 PM

Malone, Pens Talk Contract
thefourthperiod.com

Penguins GM Ray Shero has held preliminary discussions with Ryan Malone's agent, Mike Liut, about a new contract, reports the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
The Penguins appear quite interested in re-signing Malone, who can become an unrestricted free agent July 1, and Liut expects to have more talks before the NHL Entry Draft on June 20-21.

"Not much was exchanged," Liut told the Post-Gazette. "We talked briefly during the regular season, too. They have a lot of free agents. They have a [salary] cap they have to deal with. They have a lot of things to think about. They have some really good young players there."

Malone, a Pittsburgh native, would like to re-sign with the Penguins, but it's uncertain if he's willing to take a "hometown discount."
"We don't know what the discount is," Liut said. "We do our homework and look at possibilities out there, see where opportunities are. . . . Right now, he's a Pittsburgh Penguin. If it gets to July 1, you start to look around. [The hometown discount] plays in, but if July 1 comes around, you have to make decisions."

The Penguins also have to focus on re-signing restricted free agent goalie Marc-Andre Fleury.

Whether the club has enough cash to re-sign the likes of Fleury, Malone and Hossa remains to be seen, and many pundits believe the Penguins could lose both Malone and Hossa to free agency.

pittsburghp8baller

06-11-2008, 12:22 PM

Rangers To Pursue Orpik
thefourthperiod.com

The New York Rangers are among the teams expected to go after Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Brooks Orpik if he hits the open market July 1.
Orpik is set to become an unrestricted free agent and it's been widely reported that he will not re-sign with the Penguins this summer.

According to the New York Post, Orpik could make around $4.5 million to $5 million this summer via free agency.

If that's the type of money Orpik will command, the Penguins aren't expected to have the finances to keep him.

Meanwhile, the Post claims the Rangers are also interested in former Penguins defenseman Josef Melichar, who spent this season in the Swedish Elite League.

What is it with the Rangers and taking all of our players?

If orpiks is too leave than id rather it be to a western team and not a divisonal rival

Lord Stiller

06-11-2008, 01:44 PM

i'd rather keep Orpik than Malone

X-Terminator

06-11-2008, 08:17 PM

if we aren't going to sign either Malone or Orpik, why not trade their rights to Columbus before July 1st? likely for a draft pick

it's a no brainer

last year, Nashville trades rights to Timonen and HArtnell to philly for a 1st rd pick

I didn't say I minded the possible trade, but why Columbus? They have nobody I want, and at their draft position, the Pens wouldn't get someone who can play right now. If they trade Brooks or Bugsy, why not get a good player(s) in return?

X-Terminator

06-11-2008, 08:23 PM

$4.5-$5 million a year for Orpik? That is WAY too much - no way he's worth nearly as much as Sergei Gonchar. I'd tell him to have a nice career too if he wanted that much. Leave it to the f'ing Rangers to overpay someone.

And sorry, LS, but I'd rather keep Malone over Orpik. If Malone leaves, the Pens have no physical presence up front. Orpik and Hossa are most likely to leave via FA.

Also...Mike Liut is an agent now? Damn I've been a fan for a long time - I remember when he played for the Caps and Whalers back in the late 80s!

pittsburghp8baller

06-11-2008, 11:09 PM

And sorry, LS, but I'd rather keep Malone over Orpik. If Malone leaves, the Pens have no physical presence up front. Orpik and Hossa are most likely to leave via FA.

i agree completely, especially with gary roberts likely to retire we need that physical presence especially on the power play

Lord Stiller

06-11-2008, 11:12 PM

Malone over 4 million is way overpriced. He brings a lot to the game (leadership, toughness) but is not that skilled

Solid defensemen are a rare commodity

X-Terminator

06-12-2008, 02:11 AM

Malone over 4 million is way overpriced. He brings a lot to the game (leadership, toughness) but is not that skilled

Solid defensemen are a rare commodity

He's not that skilled, yet he managed to parlay that lack of skill into 28 goals last season. Come on man - there are guys in this league who put up lesser numbers than Malone and made way more money. Scott Hartnell of the Flyers immediately comes to mind. Dustin Brown of the Kings scored over 30 and he'll make the same amount starting next season, and he's just as skilled as Malone. $4 million is more than reasonable. Brooks Orpik, however, is NOT worth $4.5 or $5 million, plain and simple. He was solid in the second half of the season and a force in the playoffs, but to me, he is not in the "second tier" category of defenseman, like a John-Michael Liles or Dan Boyle, that have salaries in that range. He's more in the range of a Scott Hannan type - a young, solid defensive D-man who isn't offensively skilled. Anything more than $3.5 million per season - what Hannan is making - is too much for him.

Lord Stiller

06-12-2008, 07:45 AM

He's not that skilled, yet he managed to parlay that lack of skill into 28 goals last season.

He played nearly the whole season on a line with a Hart trophy candidate

Sykora had 29 goals and makes around 2 million?

i never said Orpik was worth anywhere near 5 million

X-Terminator

06-12-2008, 08:02 AM

He played nearly the whole season on a line with a Hart trophy candidate

Sykora had 29 goals and makes around 2 million?

i never said Orpik was worth anywhere near 5 million

Malone brings more to the table than Sykora does. Will Sykora replace him in front of the goaltender on the PP? No. Will he bring the same toughness? Not a chance. Does he kill penalties? No. Will be bring the same leadership qualities in the room and on the ice? No. That is why Malone is worth more - intangibles. Add to the fact that he is 3 years younger than Sykora. Playing with a Hart candidate helped, sure, but that shouldn't be used against him. It's interesting though that you wouldn't mind seeing Malone leave, but keep Orpik, when he didn't really start playing solid hockey every night until he was paired with Sergei Gonchar after Scuderi was injured. Before that, he was inconsistent, played 2 games at LW and benched for a few games by Therrien. It doesn't really matter at this point though, because one or the other or both may be headed out of town anyway.

Lord Stiller

06-12-2008, 08:21 AM

Orpik played way better than Malone in the playoffs. To win the Cup, you need tough guys on D like Orpik. We would have never won the Cup in the early 90's without a guy like Ulf Sammuelsson jacking people up (if you even try to compare Malone to Kevin Stevens or Rick Tocchet i will puke!)

Without Orpik, teams like Philly and Detroit will have a field day on us crashing the net

pittsburghp8baller

06-12-2008, 09:22 AM

Blue Jackets, Penguins talking trade
thefourthperiod.com

The Blue Jackets appear to be involved in trade talks with the Pittsburgh Penguins, the Columbus Dispatch reports.
According to the Dispatch, talks involve the Penguins trade the rights to one or two of their impending unrestricted free agents to the Blue Jackets for a draft pick or future considerations, possibly a player.

The paper suggests the Blue Jackets might be interested in forward Ryan Malone and defenseman Brooks Orpik, although the players involved in discussions are unknown.

Trade talks could intensify closer to the June 20-21 NHL Entry Draft.
The Penguins are supposedly talking to other clubs about this same option, and the club has other players other teams might be interested in.

Meanwhile, the Blue Jackets continue to have contract talks with goalie Pascal Leclaire. It's believed a contract will be in place before July 1.

Lord Stiller

06-12-2008, 09:39 AM

there has been reported talk of trading one of our UFA's to Columbus. Im guessing its either Malone or Orpik or both. good move imo, if we are going to lose them atleast get something in return

that's what i mentioned yesterday

if it happens, it will likely be similar to Philly's deal last year when they got the rights to Hartnell and Timonen for a 1st rd pick.

if we make the trade, it will be contigent on Orpik and Malone signing with Columbus. Why would they do that when they can test the open market?

X-Terminator

06-12-2008, 09:57 AM

Orpik played way better than Malone in the playoffs. To win the Cup, you need tough guys on D like Orpik. We would have never won the Cup in the early 90's without a guy like Ulf Sammuelsson jacking people up (if you even try to compare Malone to Kevin Stevens or Rick Tocchet i will puke!)

Without Orpik, teams like Philly and Detroit will have a field day on us crashing the net

I don't deny that - you definitely need strong, physical, MOBILE defensemen nowadays, all 3 of which Orpik would certainly qualify as, if you're going to be a contender. It also helps to have some physical guys up front as well, which is why I do not want to lose Malone (and believe me, I'd never compare him to Stevens and Tocchet, and anyone who would is an idiot). Losing his presence (and Orpik's as well) would be a big blow to this team. I just think Malone is worth the money he's going to command and worth it to re-sign.

that's what i mentioned yesterday

if it happens, it will likely be similar to Philly's deal last year when they got the rights to Hartnell and Timonen for a 1st rd pick.

if we make the trade, it will be contigent on Orpik and Malone signing with Columbus. Why would they do that when they can test the open market?

If Columbus is going to give them what they want, why not sign with them? Their 1st round pick though would not be enough for me for both of them - they pick 19th overall. I'd ask for Zherdev + the first rounder in return, or Zherdev and Tollefsen.

One thing that all of this trade talk does point out is that Hossa is staying.

Lord Stiller

06-12-2008, 10:10 AM

If Columbus is going to give them what they want, why not sign with them? Their 1st round pick though would not be enough for me for both of them - they pick 19th overall. I'd ask for Zherdev + the first rounder in return, or Zherdev and Tollefsen.

One thing that all of this trade talk does point out is that Hossa is staying.

Either Tollefsen or Zherdev and a 1st would be a great deal for the Pens. How sweet would it be if we threw in Sydor also and got rid of his 2.5 million?!

Both Tollefsen and Zherdev have a year left on their contracts and then become RFA's which are much easier to retain than a UFA

X-Terminator

06-12-2008, 10:37 AM

Either Tollefsen or Zherdev and a 1st would be a great deal for the Pens. How sweet would it be if we threw in Sydor also and got rid of his 2.5 million?!

Both Tollefsen and Zherdev have a year left on their contracts and then become RFA's which are much easier to retain than a UFA

Exactly what I was thinking. In fact, I'd just go ahead and sign either or both to extensions this season should that deal happen - it'll be cheaper than it would be if they waited until next year. The only question would be Zherdev's signability - he threatened to go back to Russia last summer if he didn't get an extension, but ultimately showed up and played, and had a damn good season (28 goals).

Lord Stiller

06-12-2008, 11:55 AM

Exactly what I was thinking. In fact, I'd just go ahead and sign either or both to extensions this season should that deal happen - it'll be cheaper than it would be if they waited until next year. The only question would be Zherdev's signability - he threatened to go back to Russia last summer if he didn't get an extension, but ultimately showed up and played, and had a damn good season (28 goals).

that's the thing now is that for good deals, you need to lock up a player before they breakout not after. Fleury is a good example, dont you wish the Pens signed him to longer than a 2 year deal after he was an RFA???

maybe playing with fellow countryman Malkin would entice him to sign a deal with the Pens

HometownGal

06-12-2008, 05:34 PM

I don't deny that - you definitely need strong, physical, MOBILE defensemen nowadays, all 3 of which Orpik would certainly qualify as, if you're going to be a contender. It also helps to have some physical guys up front as well, which is why I do not want to lose Malone (and believe me, I'd never compare him to Stevens and Tocchet, and anyone who would is an idiot). Losing his presence (and Orpik's as well) would be a big blow to this team. I just think Malone is worth the money he's going to command and worth it to re-sign.

If Columbus is going to give them what they want, why not sign with them? Their 1st round pick though would not be enough for me for both of them - they pick 19th overall. I'd ask for Zherdev + the first rounder in return, or Zherdev and Tollefsen.

One thing that all of this trade talk does point out is that Hossa is staying.

I totally agree with you about Bugsy - losing him would be a HUGE blow to the team. He really came into his own this season and deserves a hefty raise imho.

I'd love to see Hoss stay, but not at the risk of losing Geno because of future cap issues. Hoss will be 30 years old next season and Geno is just a pup with a HOF future ahead of him. I just don't see the Pens trading Malkin, especially not after all they did to get him over here to play for the Pens and how vital he was to the team when Sid went down this past season.

X-Terminator

06-13-2008, 07:08 AM

I totally agree with you about Bugsy - losing him would be a HUGE blow to the team. He really came into his own this season and deserves a hefty raise imho.

I'd love to see Hoss stay, but not at the risk of losing Geno because of future cap issues. Hoss will be 30 years old next season and Geno is just a pup with a HOF future ahead of him. I just don't see the Pens trading Malkin, especially not after all they did to get him over here to play for the Pens and how vital he was to the team when Sid went down this past season.

I hope they don't trade Malkin, but I can understand why they'd consider doing it. In the salary cap era, it's very difficult to carry 2 superstars making a third of your payroll, and still be able to build a Stanley Cup contender. Their thinking might be they could max out his value right now, get a couple of quality, young players (Dustin Brown and Jack Johnson combined would make a couple million less than Malkin would by himself) and a pick (they do not pick until the 4th round this year in a loaded draft), and use FA or a possible Malone trade to round out the rest of the team. I personally wouldn't trade him because that would weaken the team down the middle, but fortunately, I'm not the guy who has to make that decision. I do not envy Ray Shero at all right now.

I do think it sucks that the Penguins rebuilt their team through the draft, molded these guys into solid players and stars, and now because of the salary cap, they're forced to trade a few of them because they can't afford them. The very thing that Mario Lemieux fought hard to get has come back to bite him in the ass.

Lord Stiller

06-13-2008, 08:08 AM

I 1 million percent disagree with trading Malkin. Malkin is 21 years old and this year he showed the 'potential' to be better than Crosby and Ovechkin. Trading Malkin would be the dumbest thing in the history of sports

:thumbsup: here is some great news regarding Malkin:

"I'm thinking maybe five or six years," said Malkin, set to enter the final season of his three-year entry-level deal. "I'm an easy guy to deal with. I'd love to stay in Pittsburgh."

The NHL's collective bargaining agreement forbids the Penguins from signing Malkin to an extension until July 1. Malkin said he expects the extension will be signed "soon" after that date.

Malkin added that his annual salary did not need to top the $8.7 million teammate and Penguins captain Sidney Crosby will average each of the next five seasons. Crosby signed a five-year extension worth $43.5 million last summer that picks up this season.

http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pitt.../s_572532.html

all you people thinking of trading Malkin need to wake up and smell the coffee

I 1 million percent disagree with trading Malkin. Malkin is 21 years old and this year he showed the 'potential' to be better than Crosby and Ovechkin. Trading Malkin would be the dumbest thing in the history of sports

:thumbsup: here is some great news regarding Malkin:

"I'm thinking maybe five or six years," said Malkin, set to enter the final season of his three-year entry-level deal. "I'm an easy guy to deal with. I'd love to stay in Pittsburgh."

The NHL's collective bargaining agreement forbids the Penguins from signing Malkin to an extension until July 1. Malkin said he expects the extension will be signed "soon" after that date.

Malkin added that his annual salary did not need to top the $8.7 million teammate and Penguins captain Sidney Crosby will average each of the next five seasons. Crosby signed a five-year extension worth $43.5 million last summer that picks up this season.

http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pitt.../s_572532.html

all you people thinking of trading Malkin need to wake up and smell the coffee

well thats contradicts what all the reports was saying earlier. ive heard from so many things that malkin was gonna be asking around the ballpark of wat OV is making, and if that was the case trading him might have been the only solution, but if we can get malkin for less than what crosby makes than resign him- no doubt keep him.

i really do hope we can keep malkin he has really proven he is top 5 in this world right now and can only get better.

Lord Stiller

06-13-2008, 09:57 AM

i heard months ago that Malkin didnt want a deal as long as Ovechkin's....which is smart. if he signs a 5-6 year deal he will be 26-27 and in his prime to sign another big deal and probably make more than Ovechkin

and i trust the source that has direct quotes from Malkin more than some rumors from NHL idiots like Milbury

X-Terminator

06-13-2008, 10:14 AM

I 1 million percent disagree with trading Malkin. Malkin is 21 years old and this year he showed the 'potential' to be better than Crosby and Ovechkin. Trading Malkin would be the dumbest thing in the history of sports

:thumbsup: here is some great news regarding Malkin:

"I'm thinking maybe five or six years," said Malkin, set to enter the final season of his three-year entry-level deal. "I'm an easy guy to deal with. I'd love to stay in Pittsburgh."

The NHL's collective bargaining agreement forbids the Penguins from signing Malkin to an extension until July 1. Malkin said he expects the extension will be signed "soon" after that date.

Malkin added that his annual salary did not need to top the $8.7 million teammate and Penguins captain Sidney Crosby will average each of the next five seasons. Crosby signed a five-year extension worth $43.5 million last summer that picks up this season.

http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pitt.../s_572532.html

all you people thinking of trading Malkin need to wake up and smell the coffee

I don't believe I agreed with or wanted the Pens to trade Malkin. I was looking at it from the perspective of IF they decided to trade him. It was pure speculation and nothing more.

As for the "hacks" who thought this up, it was Ray Ferraro first, and then Nick "You GKTFO" Kypreos. Milbury wasn't even on the radar screen. Regardless, I am very happy to hear this straight from the horse's mouth. It tells me Geno wants to win, and money is secondary to him - just like it was with Sid. :drink:

Now though, who is it that exits stage left? Will it be Malone or Hossa (we'll leave Orpik out of it for now)? Should be pretty damn interesting.

Lord Stiller

06-13-2008, 11:08 AM

we should try to extend Staal also

X-Terminator

06-13-2008, 11:12 AM

we should try to extend Staal also

They are planning on doing just that.

Lord Stiller

06-13-2008, 11:46 AM

They are planning on doing just that.

EXCELLENT

Staal is very underrated. He is only 19! His offensive skills suffered a little this year but he picked up his D big time. Staal has the Selke potential.

pittsburghp8baller

06-13-2008, 02:39 PM

EXCELLENT

Staal is very underrated. He is only 19! His offensive skills suffered a little this year but he picked up his D big time. Staal has the Selke potential.

i dont think Staal is ever gonna a high scoring foward, but his defensive skills are well worth the second overall pick. he is def a future selke trophy winner. he has emerged as our go to guy on face-offs and our top PK and defensive forward

BettisFan

06-13-2008, 03:01 PM

Sid the Kid is signed through the 2012-2013 season at is taking 8.7 million per season (on average). Sid will be here for the long run we know that from his pay-cut he took on his latest deal. Malkin only has one year left on his three year entry deal. I am looking for a long term deal that will go for more than Sidís 8.7 million per year. Marian Hossa is a key part of this team in the playoffs and is an unrestricted free agent. He recently stated that he is willing to take less to stay with the pens which is amazing news lets hope he gets a new deal. Jordan Stall one of the young guns has like Malkin just one year left and will want to get a deal now since he only had 12 goals this season there is no telling how he will do next year. Petr Sykora is signed for one more year, he plays for not too much and looks like he will stay for one more contract. Jarkko Ruutu is looking like a goner. He is now an unrestricted free agent and last time he was a FA he got 11 teams to give him offers, the pens don't like him enough to pay for what he wants. Gary is also an URFA and cant really do anything else for the Penguins who really have no need for his play, he also should retire in the next two years so its not worth it. Georges Laraque the kick boxer who everyone likes is an URFA and makes 1.3 million per year. He is now at 50/50 for coming back depending on other players deals. My boy Maxime Talbot has one more season to play under his contract and will move up to either the first or second line next season. Pascal Dupuis I see gone he is an URFA and even though not expensive the Pens could use the money better elsewhere. Tyler Kennedy has one season left and is making $550,000 per year, if he really wants to stay he needs to rack up some goals. Adam Hall had a great playoff run and is an URFA but will be back. Jeff Taffe is also an URFA but has his role on the team and will be accepted back easily. Kris Beech is our last forward, he is also an URFA and is gone sorry Beech fans... wait are there any?? Onto our great Defensemen, to start off Brooks Orpik who has increased his value so much over the last couple seasons is looking like he going to take the route of going to another team. He could be offered around 3 million a year where the Pens only payed him 1 million. Sergei Gonchar by far my favorite of the Defensemen is signed through the 2009-2010 season at 5 million a season. Since his contract is so high we could trade him to add more flexibility to the team but I am looking for him to be kept because of his play as well as his great team chemistry. With Ryan Whitney there really is not much to say besides he is signed through 2012-2013 and is taking after Gonchar with his play. Mark Eaton who is an URFA could stay with the team since his injury could lower his salary, that would be the only way I see him staying in Pittsburgh. Then there is Rob Scuderi, Darryl Sydor, Hal Gill and Kris Letang who I see all staying but roles changing mostly with Sydor who may be overtaken by Alex Goligoski if he is ready that is. Last for sure not least is our group of Goalies. Ty Conklin is an URFA and is going to be let go, he has finished his duty in a Pens uniform where as Dany Sabourin would take his space as backup and he is singed through next season. Then there is Mr. Fluery who is a restricted free agent. If the Penguins don't sign by July 1st other teams can come and make him some better offers so the Pens better act fast.

Lord Stiller

06-13-2008, 03:59 PM

http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?se...ticleid=365955

smart move

HometownGal

06-13-2008, 06:47 PM

http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?se...ticleid=365955

smart move

A very smart move by the Pens. :thumbsup: The Pens are assured of having MAF's services at least through next season - worst case scenario. I think they will come to an agreement at some point.

Word has it on KDKA that the Pens are busy little bees negotiating with both Marian Hossa and Geno. It will be interesting to see how they work all of this out, but I like the positive vibes I'm feeling. :tt03:

SteelCityMan786

06-13-2008, 10:46 PM

A very smart move by the Pens. :thumbsup: The Pens are assured of having MAF's services at least through next season - worst case scenario. I think they will come to an agreement at some point.

Word has it on KDKA that the Pens are busy little bees negotiating with both Marian Hossa and Geno. It will be interesting to see how they work all of this out, but I like the positive vibes I'm feeling. :tt03:

I'd love to see a lot of crazy moves that Mr. Shero can think of be done. They'll be a doozy to pull off. But I feel he'll be able to satisfy most if not all offers.

BettisFan

06-13-2008, 11:13 PM

YES!! GREAT MOVE PENS!! I love Hossa lets get him now!

The Duke

06-14-2008, 12:58 AM

fleury was the most important resign imo. glad they made the decision

Word has it on KDKA that the Pens are busy little bees negotiating with both Marian Hossa and Geno . It will be interesting to see how they work all of this out, but I like the positive vibes I'm feeling.

nice :tt02:

would love to have them back

I trust the pens to make the right decisions, even if we have to say goodbye to some great players

X-Terminator

06-14-2008, 01:24 AM

A very smart move by the Pens. :thumbsup: The Pens are assured of having MAF's services at least through next season - worst case scenario. I think they will come to an agreement at some point.

Word has it on KDKA that the Pens are busy little bees negotiating with both Marian Hossa and Geno. It will be interesting to see how they work all of this out, but I like the positive vibes I'm feeling. :tt03:

Yes, I agree it was a great move. It effectively prevents any team from pulling a "Kevin Lowe" and screwing the Pens by signing him to a huge offer sheet that they'd have to match or lose him for draft picks. Remember, it was Lowe, the GM of the Oilers, who signed Dustin Penner in '06 and Thomas Vanek last summer to big-money offer sheets (Penner's was 5 yrs, $27 million, and Vanek's a whopping 7 yrs, $52 million). Anaheim did not match Penner's offer, while the Sabres - to everyone's surprise - matched Vanek's. Imagine if a team signed Fleury to an offer equal to Penner's? That would definitely throw a big road block in their plans to sign their top players.

Great news on the negotiations with Hoss and Geno. I hope they get their deals done soon, and in the case of Hoss, he does not have to wait until July 1 to sign - the Pens can sign him tomorrow if they chose to. Unfortunately, if they do sign Hoss, that means Malone and Orpik likely are gone, and with them their physical presences. All wouldn't be lost, though, because the Pens can certainly make a few FA signings and/or trades of their own to replace their toughness if nothing else.

pittsburghp8baller

06-14-2008, 10:28 AM

Pens make Hossa their priority

http://pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/s_572725.html

The Penguins have made signing right wing Marian Hossa to a long-term contract their No. 1 priority, according to several players, agents and team officials who spoke to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review on the condition of anonymity.
All other offseason moves will be determined by the Penguins' success or failure in this pursuit of Hossa, who scored 12 goals and recorded 26 points in 20 Stanley Cup playoff games skating alongside star center Sidney Crosby.

During season-ending meetings with general manager Ray Shero on June 6, several Penguins players were told the team would push hard to reach terms with Hossa, who can become an unrestricted free agent July 1.

Shero declined comment Friday.

The Penguins elected yesterday to file for salary arbitration with goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury, denying him the chance to become a restricted free agent on July 1 and guaranteeing he will play in Pittsburgh next season.
The decision allows the Penguins to temporarily place on the backburner talks with Fleury about a long-term extension and focus solely on a new contract for Hossa.

Hossa, 29, is believed to be seeking a deal for five years or more. He expects to command no less than $8 million in annual salary on the open market. However, he said after the Stanley Cup final that he would "take less to play on a good team."

The Penguins, a Cup finalist, plan to test that claim. Their offer is likely to be worth nearly $50 million over seven years - a marginal raise on his 2007-08 salary of $7 million.

Hossa was acquired by the Penguins Feb. 26 along with forward Pascal Dupuis from Atlanta for forwards Colby Armstrong, Erik Christensen, top prospect Angelo Esposito and a 2008 first-round pick.

The Penguins are expected to impose a deadline for Hossa to accept their offer, possibly after next weekend's entry draft in Ottawa. Their efforts to sign other potential unrestricted free agents - specifically defenseman Brooks Orpik and left wing Ryan Malone - would be affected by that decision.

A player likely affected by Hossa's decision would be center Jordan Staal, who is eligible to sign an extension on July 1. He is entering the final season of a three-year entry level deal.

Indications are that talks of Staal's potential extension could last into the upcoming season. He will count $2.2 million against the salary cap in 2008-09.

Center Evgeni Malkin, set to count $3.8 million against the cap next season, is in a situation similar to the one facing Staal.

Malkin said Thursday at the NHL Awards Show in Toronto that he expects to sign a five- or six-year extension "soon" after July 1. The Penguins' focus on a deal for Hossa should not affect Malkin's possible extension.

An MVP finalist after leading the Penguins with 47 goals and 106 points, Malkin added he would accept an annual salary less than the $8.7 million due Crosby each of next five seasons.

Crosby signed an extension last summer that will pay him $43.5 million through the 2012-13 season.

NHL commissioner Gary Bettman said during the Cup final he believed the salary cap would increase by at least $3 million for the upcoming season. The current cap stands at $50.3 million, and the Penguins are committed to about $34 million in total players' salary for 2008-09.

Twelve players from their playoff roster can become unrestricted free agents July 1. Hossa is the Penguins' prime target, followed by Orpik, who earned slightly less than $1 million last season.

Orpik, praised by team officials and coaches and opponents during the Penguins' playoff run, told the Penguins he would accept less than market value for a deal of at least five seasons. Several agents speculate he will command above $4 million annually on the open market.

Malone and the Penguins are believed to be far apart on a new contract. He is expected to lean toward testing the free-agent market, where the Columbus Blue Jackets will likely make a play for his services - possibly with an offer near $5 million annually over five years.

BettisFan

06-14-2008, 10:31 AM

Pens make Hossa their priority

http://pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/s_572725.html

Hossa is worth the deal that he wants, he is an allstar caliber player every year and is a big boost to this team. Hossa needs to be signed or there will be a big difference in this years playoff team which is where he really shined.

X-Terminator

06-14-2008, 10:55 PM

If the Jackets are going to offer Malone $5 million per season, then I'm sorry, he should also be told to go have a nice career. At $3.5-4 million, he's worth it to re-sign. At $5 million, no way. The Pens should definitely try to deal him rather than let him walk for nothing.

On D, there really aren't too many guys on that list I'd want. Maybe Mike Commodore, Jim Vandermeer or Jason Smith if you're looking for toughness, or Paul Mara if you're looking for some skill. Matt Walker is an intriguing choice - he hasn't gotten any playing time in St. Louis, but he could be a decent 6th defenseman who brings plenty of toughness - and a right-handed shot. They may opt to re-sign Mark Eaton as well. Orpik is better than a lot of those guys on that list, but isn't worth anywhere near $4 million per season. Norstrom and Wesley have retired, and Dan Jancevski re-signed with Dallas. At LW, I'd see what Ladislav Nagy or Kristian Huselius might want. Nagy has been a career underachiever who isn't worth $3.75 million, but if he could come in here for much less, he could have some success with the talent we have. Huselius has put up some good numbers the past 2 seasons in Calgary, yet has gone almost completely unnoticed. With them re-signing Daymond Langkow and Dion Phaneuf to extensions, and Jarome Iginla and Miikka Kiprusoff both making big money, they may not be able to afford Huselius. He'd be a perfect fit on Malkin's line.

SteelCityMan786

06-15-2008, 12:32 AM

On D, there really aren't too many guys on that list I'd want. Maybe Mike Commodore, Jim Vandermeer or Jason Smith if you're looking for toughness, or Paul Mara if you're looking for some skill. Matt Walker is an intriguing choice - he hasn't gotten any playing time in St. Louis, but he could be a decent 6th defenseman who brings plenty of toughness - and a right-handed shot. They may opt to re-sign Mark Eaton as well. Orpik is better than a lot of those guys on that list, but isn't worth anywhere near $4 million per season. Norstrom and Wesley have retired, and Dan Jancevski re-signed with Dallas. At LW, I'd see what Ladislav Nagy or Kristian Huselius might want. Nagy has been a career underachiever who isn't worth $3.75 million, but if he could come in here for much less, he could have some success with the talent we have. Huselius has put up some good numbers the past 2 seasons in Calgary, yet has gone almost completely unnoticed. With them re-signing Daymond Langkow and Dion Phaneuf to extensions, and Jarome Iginla and Miikka Kiprusoff both making big money, they may not be able to afford Huselius. He'd be a perfect fit on Malkin's line.

I've thought even about signing Redden, but he costs too much damn money

BettisFan

06-15-2008, 12:32 AM

Well since Eaton is for sure worth what he wants and as well as Orpik i am not worried

X-Terminator

06-15-2008, 01:04 AM

I've thought even about signing Redden, but he costs too much damn money

Redden won't get $6.5 million from anyone because he was simply awful last season and the last half of '06-'07, but even if he gets $4 million, that would be too steep for the Pens to pay.

Lord Stiller

06-15-2008, 10:23 AM

On D, there really aren't too many guys on that list I'd want. Maybe Mike Commodore, Jim Vandermeer or Jason Smith if you're looking for toughness, or Paul Mara if you're looking for some skill. Matt Walker is an intriguing choice - he hasn't gotten any playing time in St. Louis, but he could be a decent 6th defenseman who brings plenty of toughness - and a right-handed shot. They may opt to re-sign Mark Eaton as well. Orpik is better than a lot of those guys on that list, but isn't worth anywhere near $4 million per season. Norstrom and Wesley have retired, and Dan Jancevski re-signed with Dallas. At LW, I'd see what Ladislav Nagy or Kristian Huselius might want. Nagy has been a career underachiever who isn't worth $3.75 million, but if he could come in here for much less, he could have some success with the talent we have. Huselius has put up some good numbers the past 2 seasons in Calgary, yet has gone almost completely unnoticed. With them re-signing Daymond Langkow and Dion Phaneuf to extensions, and Jarome Iginla and Miikka Kiprusoff both making big money, they may not be able to afford Huselius. He'd be a perfect fit on Malkin's line.

Like I have said all along, it is important to keep Orpik. It's hard to find good Dmen. Pens understand this and will look to resign him after taking care of Geno and Hossa

I think we can keep Orpik for around 3-4 million a year. something like 5 years, 18 million

Malone wants more than he's worth so he is a goner. Pens are offering him around 3 million per year and he wants 5. buh-bye

pittsburghp8baller

06-15-2008, 11:10 AM

Hossa Receives Long Term Deal
thefourthperiod.com

The Pittsburgh Penguins have pitched a long-term contract offer to retain the services of star sniper Marian Hossa, TFP has learned.
Hossa, 29, can become an unrestricted free agent July 1 and the Penguins are hoping their offer, believed to be seven-years worth just over $50 million, will keep him from hitting the open market.

Penguins GM Ray Shero has been involved in ongoing discussions with Hossa's agent, Ritch Winter, and expects to receive an answer this coming week.

When contacted by TFP's Editor-in-Chief David Pagnotta, Winter indicated he does not comment publicly on negotiations.
Hossa, who made $7 million this past season, could command more than $8 million on the open market, but he has suggested that he would be willing to accept less to play "for a good team."

The Penguins acquired Hossa from the Atlanta Thrashers along with forward Pascal Dupuis on Feb. 26 for forwards Colby Armstrong, Erik Christensen, Angelo Esposito and a 2008 first-round pick.

The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports the Penguins have implemented a deadline for Hossa to respond to their offer.

If Hossa re-signs with the Penguins, the team is not expected to retain the services of winger Ryan Malone and defenseman Brooks Orpik.

According to the Columbus Dispatch, the Blue Jackets are trying to acquire Malone's rights in order to have a shot at signing him before other teams can pitch him an offer July 1.

The Dispatch suggests the Blue Jackets are willing to part with forward Dan Fritsche, or a second- or third-round draft pick for Malone's negotiating rights.

pittsburghp8baller

06-15-2008, 11:19 AM

its a shame that we r gonna lose malone. his presence on the power play will be missed big time.

dan fritsche wont light up the scoreboards like malone but he is a tough grinder who will work hard in the corners and will give us everything malone gave us (minus the goals). ive been watchn him play since his rookie year ( i saw his first goal), he would be a good addition to our team and if we could possibly get a late rounder too that would be even better.

pittsburghp8baller

06-15-2008, 11:25 AM

Blue Jackets After Malone
thefourthperiod.com

The Blue Jackets are trying to acquire the rights to winger Ryan Malone from the Pittsburgh Penguins, reports the Columbus Dispatch.
Malone is set to become an unrestricted free agent July 1 and the Penguins are toying with the idea of trading his rights for a player or draft pick, giving his new team extra time to try and sign him before the free agent market opens.

The Blue Jackets are believed to be the front runners, with the Minnesota Wild also expressing an interest.

According to the Dispatch's website, the Blue Jackets might be offering forward Dan Fritsche or a second- or third-round draft pick in exchange for Malone's negotiating rights.
The Blue Jackets could have an answer in the next 48 to 72 hours, the paper claims. The Penguins have made a long-term offer to keep Marian Hossa, and if he accepts, the Penguins will likely trade Malone's rights.

Columbus GM Scott Howson has also inquired about San Jose captain Patrick Marleau.

11. Ryan Malone- Unless the Penguins open up their wallets, Malone will cash it in with another team this summer. 08/09 expected salary- 5 million Teams interested-
Pittsburgh, Columbus, Vancouver (apparently Minnesota too from the article above)

were u really expecting NIkki Z? this may b best case scernio. think about why overpay to get somebody u will prob jus have to wait an extra two weeks to go out and get him for free.

the only way we get Nikki Z is if Orpik is somehow packaged into the deal.

Wild may not have that much more to offer. reports are that they going hard after Rolston to resign him. lookin at their list of free agents the few id go after is Rolston, either Foy/Voros, kind of like younger malones, Voros spent time on the 1st power play and 1st line with gaborik. their numbers arent impressive but i watch a lot of wild games and Voros is a lot like malone and with a playmaker like crosby can put up respectable numbers

X-Terminator

06-15-2008, 12:23 PM

were u really expecting NIkki Z? this may b best case scernio. think about why overpay to get somebody u will prob jus have to wait an extra two weeks to go out and get him for free.

the only way we get Nikki Z is if Orpik is somehow packaged into the deal.

Wild may not have that much more to offer. reports are that they going hard after Rolston to resign him. lookin at their list of free agents the few id go after is Rolston, either Foy/Voros, kind of like younger malones, Voros spent time on the 1st power play and 1st line with gaborik. their numbers arent impressive but i watch a lot of wild games and Voros is a lot like malone and with a playmaker like crosby can put up respectable numbers

No, I was not expecting Zherdev straight up for Malone - I had eyes on their 2nd first-round pick (they pick 6th and 19th). But looking at the draft order, if they offered their 2nd round pick (37th overall), I'd take it.

if we get a 2nd for Malone, i will be happy (dont know much about Fritsche)

Yes, I do understand that, which is why I knew that they'd never get Zherdev straight up for Malone. As I said, I wanted their second first-round pick, which the Pens could have then used to draft a defenseman, of which there are several they could choose from that can develop into physical presences. But if they offered their 2nd pick, I'd certainly take it, because they still can get a good prospect at 37.

X-Terminator

06-15-2008, 12:53 PM

YEA BABY!!!! HOSSA HOSSA HOSSA!!! He's back!!

HELL YA!

This offseason is going great. Looks like we will sign Hossa, Malkin and Fleury. If we re-sign Orpik I could see us winning the Cup next year. Orpik is the key now, we need him resigned bad

Dont forget guys like Malkin, Crosby, Staal and Fleury are all really young and may actually get a lot better :jawdrop:

You guys do realize that Hossa has not accepted the offer yet, right?

Lord Stiller

06-15-2008, 01:02 PM

You guys do realize that Hossa has not accepted the offer yet, right?

the article said Hossa is 'expected to sign the contract'

meaning they have been negotiating and this is what the Pens came up with. they are close and it looks to be a done deal soon

Lord Stiller

06-15-2008, 01:04 PM

Yes, I do understand that, which is why I knew that they'd never get Zherdev straight up for Malone. As I said, I wanted their second first-round pick, which the Pens could have then used to draft a defenseman, of which there are several they could choose from that can develop into physical presences. But if they offered their 2nd pick, I'd certainly take it, because they still can get a good prospect at 37.

I think i would prefer a draft pick also. The Pens traded away many of their picks and i've heard this is a deep draft

dont tell me you want to draft a physical defenseman in lieu of signing Orpik? any draft pick could take years untill they are NHL ready

retaining Orpik is key to the Pens success. ask any Canadian person they will tell you how important defensmen are in hockey

HometownGal

06-15-2008, 01:28 PM

You guys do realize that Hossa has not accepted the offer yet, right?

Hoss hasn't signed on the dotted line just yet, but I believe it is imminent. He has expressed numerous times how much he enjoys playing with the Pens and also that he would take a lesser amount to play with a Cup contender, which the Pens most definitely are. Fingers (and toes) crossed that he signs. He is a great fit for this team.

I'd love to keep Orpik, as well. Shero is the master at contract negotiations, so I hope he can swing a deal to keep Brooks right here in da Burgh where he belongs. :tt03: As XT will confirm - this is the first season that many Pens fans appreciated Brooks for his efforts and physical play - the boos ran rampant at Mellon Arena prior to this past season. :banging:

pittsburghp8baller

06-15-2008, 01:51 PM

i think if hossa signs today, malone will be gone by tuesday, wednesday at the latest, if it doesnt happen by the draft though i think malone is gonna walk. i do think that we already have a trade worked out with columbus and if hossa does sign it will happen quick

X-Terminator

06-15-2008, 04:29 PM

the article said Hossa is 'expected to sign the contract'

meaning they have been negotiating and this is what the Pens came up with. they are close and it looks to be a done deal soon

No, the article said the Pens expect an answer sometime this week, meaning he could still say no and choose to test the market. Nothing has been finalized, nor should it be considered as such.

I think i would prefer a draft pick also. The Pens traded away many of their picks and i've heard this is a deep draft

dont tell me you want to draft a physical defenseman in lieu of signing Orpik? any draft pick could take years untill they are NHL ready

retaining Orpik is key to the Pens success. ask any Canadian person they will tell you how important defensmen are in hockey

I don't think the Pens will be able to re-sign Orpik, and if they don't, they should use that pick, should they get it in a possible Malone trade, to draft a defenseman. This draft is indeed deep, especially on D. Of course, if they do re-sign him, then they should take the best player available.

Hoss hasn't signed on the dotted line just yet, but I believe it is imminent. He has expressed numerous times how much he enjoys playing with the Pens and also that he would take a lesser amount to play with a Cup contender, which the Pens most definitely are. Fingers (and toes) crossed that he signs. He is a great fit for this team.

I'd love to keep Orpik, as well. Shero is the master at contract negotiations, so I hope he can swing a deal to keep Brooks right here in da Burgh where he belongs. :tt03: As XT will confirm - this is the first season that many Pens fans appreciated Brooks for his efforts and physical play - the boos ran rampant at Mellon Arena prior to this past season. :banging:

Lots of guys SAY they like playing where they are or want to play for a contender...until someone comes along and dangles a few more millions under their nose, and they bolt. Until Hoss signs on the dotted line, I'm going to continue to be skeptical.

pittsburghp8baller

06-15-2008, 05:27 PM

Lots of guys SAY they like playing where they are or want to play for a contender...until someone comes along and dangles a few more millions under their nose, and they bolt. Until Hoss signs on the dotted line, I'm going to continue to be skeptical.

I gotta agree with u there u never kno if some1 throws a couple of million extra per year i may be a little tempted.

this draft is deep in D-man and we could find some1 at wherever we end up. i do think maybe in a season (at the most) we could have a decent replacement in Paul Bissonnette. he is a big guy who can be that physical D-man we need (might actually score more than him)

i wonder if we package our draft picks this year and one next year and move up and get one of the top D-man's? i know that toronto has expressed interest in trading their first pick (seven). maybe tyler myers who is expected to go in the middle of the first.

http://www.mynhldraft.com/2008/NHL-Draft-Profiles/Tyler-Myers

Lord Stiller

06-15-2008, 05:45 PM

No, the article said the Pens expect an answer sometime this week, meaning he could still say no and choose to test the market. Nothing has been finalized, nor should it be considered as such.

you're right my bad.

I don't think the Pens will be able to re-sign Orpik, and if they don't, they should use that pick, should they get it in a possible Malone trade, to draft a defenseman. This draft is indeed deep, especially on D. Of course, if they do re-sign him, then they should take the best player available.

I think the Pens will be able to sign Orpik.

Even if they draft a dman, i doubt he will be NHL ready for a few years

pittsburghp8baller

06-15-2008, 06:14 PM

here is a list of all the Defenseman in this years draft. if u look into some1 profile u may have to refresh when u go back. I really like this Tyler Mylers kid, he is 6-7 and says he models his game after Chris Pronger. great speed and movement for his size and willing to drop the gloves no problem. the only problem is that he is a mid-first round draft pick and we would have to do some major dealing in order to get him. toronto has showed interest in trading their pick but it is the seventh pick so that would be some major dealing but he may be worth it

http://www.nhlentrydraft2008.com/playersNamePosition.aspx

BettisFan

06-16-2008, 12:20 PM

yea just relized he has not accepted

X-Terminator

06-16-2008, 09:27 PM

Here is a great site that shows where every team stands as far as their cap status. If you click on the Penguins, it'll give you a list of everyone under contract for this past season and the next 7 seasons. Interestingly, Sid will actually make $9 million beginning next season, and just $7.5 million in the final year of his contract. You figure he'll get an extension long before that.

http://www.nhlscap.com/offer_sheets.htm

HometownGal

06-17-2008, 06:46 PM

Looks like we may lose Bugsy in the next day or two. I hate losing him, but I think his departure is inevevitable, sadly.

The Columbus Dispatch reports that NHL sources say the team could trade with the Penguins for negotiating rights to Malone.

The deal could happen today or Wednesday, according to the paper.

Sources tell The Dispatch that the team could pay Malone $4.5 million to $5.5 million a season during a four or five-year contract.

I'd love to keep him too, but not at $5.5 million - he's not worth that much. It's a shame that he wouldn't take a little bit of a cut so that he could have a chance to win the Cup, but I can't blame him for wanting to cash in now.

Word is the deal is Dan Fritsche + 3rd round pick for Malone's rights. I'd take that. It may also mean that Marian Hossa accepted his offer,

Preacher

06-17-2008, 10:37 PM

Man it seems SO WEIRD looking at cap questions and UFA's for hockey.

SteelCityMan786

06-17-2008, 10:43 PM

I'd love to keep him too, but not at $5.5 million - he's not worth that much. It's a shame that he wouldn't take a little bit of a cut so that he could have a chance to win the Cup, but I can't blame him for wanting to cash in now.

Word is the deal is Dan Fritsche + 3rd round pick for Malone's rights. I'd take that. It may also mean that Marian Hossa accepted his offer,

Even if Malone doesn't sign, guys like Huselius are ones that I could see being with Crosby or as a 2nd liner. Big thing is though that if Staal is having problems being the 3rd line center, he may get moved up to a 2nd line wing in order to keep him.

Either way, after July 1, we're going to have an interesting off-season.

X-Terminator

06-18-2008, 12:12 AM

Even if Malone doesn't sign, guys like Huselius are ones that I could see being with Crosby or as a 2nd liner. Big thing is though that if Staal is having problems being the 3rd line center, he may get moved up to a 2nd line wing in order to keep him.

Either way, after July 1, we're going to have an interesting off-season.

Huselius would be nice, but he wants $5 million per season - pass. If the Pens aren't going to sign Malone for that much, they won't give it to Huselius. The best we'd likely do is a guy like Michael Ryder, but I'd give it a week before he'd be in Therrien's doghouse, because he doesn't play defense.

On your list, though, I'd love to see the Pens sign Darcy Hordichuk as our enforcer, if they don't re-sign Laraque. He can play the game as well as Laraque can, but skates better and hits everything that moves, in addition to being a good and exciting fighter. He'd be an instant fan favorite.

SteelCityMan786

06-18-2008, 10:11 AM

Huselius would be nice, but he wants $5 million per season - pass. If the Pens aren't going to sign Malone for that much, they won't give it to Huselius. The best we'd likely do is a guy like Michael Ryder, but I'd give it a week before he'd be in Therrien's doghouse, because he doesn't play defense.

On your list, though, I'd love to see the Pens sign Darcy Hordichuk as our enforcer, if they don't re-sign Laraque. He can play the game as well as Laraque can, but skates better and hits everything that moves, in addition to being a good and exciting fighter. He'd be an instant fan favorite.

Huselius only scored 32(25 Regular Season and 7 Post Season) goals combined, but I feel at best he is 3.5-4 million in value.

pittsburghp8baller

06-18-2008, 10:39 AM

Huselius only scored 32(25 Regular Season and 7 Post Season) goals combined, but I feel at best he is 3.5-4 million in value.

its been reported huselius could bring in 5 million worth of value. he is 28/29 now prob jus bout to hit his 'prime' and could have a big year depending on where he ends up

Malone To Test Market, Hossa Talks Continues
thefourthperiod.com

Despite the Penguins reportedly close to trading Ryan Malone to the Columbus Blue Jackets, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports a deal might not be consummated.
Malone's agent, Michael Liut, told the paper his client wouldn't be interested in a trade and that he'd prefer to test the open market July 1.

"Ryan doesn't want to go down that road," Liut said.

"His preference would be to go ahead and go until July 1 [and become an unrestricted free agent]."

Contract talks between Malone and the Penguins ended last week, and Malone reiterated his agent's comments.
"We will not talk to anyone until July 1," Malone told the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.

The Columbus Dispatch reported the Blue Jackets were willing to give Malone a four- or five-year contract worth in between $4.5 million to $5.5 million per season.

"We'll see what happens in the next week or 10 days," Liut said. "His position has not changed. When July 1 comes around, he'll wind up someplace. We can't say where yet. He's trying not to overanalyze it. He's just waiting to see what happens. It's all a part of the beast now."

Meanwhile, Marian Hossa will review the Penguins' latest offer once he returns from vacation, according to the Tribune-Review.

Hossa, who will be back from the Bahamas this week, will meet with agent Ritch Winter to discuss the Penguins' plans.

If a deal with Hossa cannot be reached, the Tribune-Review claims the Penguins could trade his negotiating rights before he becomes an unrestricted free agent on July 1.

As Hossa sits atop Pittsburgh's priority list, No.2 is defenseman Brooks Orpik. The Penguins are expected to speak with his agent this week in Ottawa, home of the June 20-21 NHL Entry Draft.

http://thefourthperiod.com/news/pit080618.html

i guess either we were asking for to much jus for signing rights or maybe there was never anyting at all

here is the link for the 'rumor' page for thefourthperiod.com
http://www.thefourthperiod.com/rumors.html

pittsburghp8baller

06-18-2008, 10:41 AM

huh, i jus scrolled down on the rumor page and look what i saw-

Report: Columbus Close To Aquiring Malone
thefourthperiod.com

The Blue Jackets appear close to acquiring the negotiating rights of winger Ryan Malone from the Pittsburgh Penguins, reports the Columbus Dispatch.
The two teams have been involved in trade discussions for the last two weeks, and the paper suggests a deal could be struck today, or more likely Wednesday.

Malone can become an unrestricted free agent July 1, but the Blue Jackets would like to sign him to a four- or five-year contract worth in between $4.5 million and $5.5 million per season.

The Minnesota Wild and Vancouver Canucks have also inquired about Malone's availability.
Meanwhile, the Blue Jackets are shopping the sixth and 19th overall picks in this weekend's NHL draft.

"There's lots of interest," Blue Jackets GM Scott Howson told the Dispatch. "I'm taking as many calls as I'm making right now."

According to the paper, San Jose, Ottawa, Florida and Montreal are interested in one of the Blue Jackets' first two picks.

Howson indicated the only way he trades the sixth overall pick is if the Blue Jackets acquired a first-line center or a top-two defenseman.

Sources tell TFP the Blue Jackets remain interested in Sharks captain Patrick Marleau, while they are supposedly offering the sixth pick and Nikolai Zherdev to the Panthers for Olli Jokinen.

X-Terminator

06-18-2008, 11:17 AM

I don't want to think negative, but the longer this goes, the more I think the Pens won't sign any of our UFAs. Who's to say Hossa won't ask for more than $50 million over those 7 years and reject the offer? All I know is that I want July 1 to get here, so we can get all of this over with and start focusing on the guys who actually will be and want to be here next season, rather than do the usual lip service about being willing to stay for less, and then leaving for the first team that offers a dollar more.

SteelCityMan786

06-18-2008, 11:19 AM

I don't want to think negative, but the longer this goes, the more I think the Pens won't sign any of our UFAs. Who's to say Hossa won't ask for more than $50 million over those 7 years and reject the offer? All I know is that I want July 1 to get here, so we can get all of this over with and start focusing on the guys who actually will be and want to be here next season, rather than do the usual lip service about being willing to stay for less, and then leaving for the first team that offers a dollar more.

The sooner we can actually get our players signed the better.

HometownGal

06-18-2008, 05:24 PM

Ruh roh.

Malone opposes a trade
Agent says client seeks free agency

Tuesday, June 17, 2008
By Ray Fittipaldo, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08169/890647-61.stm

Amid speculation that the Penguins were about to send Ryan Malone to a Western Conference team for a player and/or draft pick, Malone's agent signaled last night that his client was not interested in such a deal and that Malone would rather wait to become an unrestricted free agent July 1.

The Columbus Dispatch reported yesterday that the Penguins were going to trade Malone's right to Columbus, Vancouver or Minnesota. But Malone's agent, Mike Liut, suggested that a team trading for his client might end up empty-handed if Malone chooses not to sign.

"Ryan doesn't want to go down that road," Liut said.

"His preference would be to go ahead and go until July 1 [and become an unrestricted free agent]."

If Malone waits until July 1, he would be on the open market and teams could drive up his asking price through bidding .

Speculation about trading potential unrestricted free agents has been popular since Philadelphia acquired the rights to Scott Hartnell and Kimmo Timonen from Nashville last year, but Liut said that was a unique circumstance that was aided by the fact that Nashville and Philadelphia had more time to make a deal because they did not have deep playoff runs. The players apparently preferred to leave because of Nashville's financial troubles at that time.

Liut said Malone is trying not to pay too much attention to the speculation regarding his impending free agency.

"He's looking at better than a 50-50 chance right now that he'll be changing teams," Liut said. "We'll see what happens in the next week or 10 days. His position has not changed. When July 1 comes around, he'll wind up someplace. We can't say where yet. He's trying not to overanalyze it. He's just waiting to see what happens. It's all a part of the beast now."

Malone is one of a dozen Penguins who can become unrestricted free agents July 1. The Penguins are believed to be concentrating their efforts on signing Marian Hossa to a long-term contract.

Amid speculation that the Penguins were about to send Ryan Malone to a Western Conference team for a player and/or draft pick, Malone's agent signaled last night that his client was not interested in such a deal and that Malone would rather wait to become an unrestricted free agent July 1.

The Columbus Dispatch reported yesterday that the Penguins were going to trade Malone's right to Columbus, Vancouver or Minnesota. But Malone's agent, Mike Liut, suggested that a team trading for his client might end up empty-handed if Malone chooses not to sign.

"Ryan doesn't want to go down that road," Liut said.

"His preference would be to go ahead and go until July 1 [and become an unrestricted free agent]."

If Malone waits until July 1, he would be on the open market and teams could drive up his asking price through bidding .

Speculation about trading potential unrestricted free agents has been popular since Philadelphia acquired the rights to Scott Hartnell and Kimmo Timonen from Nashville last year, but Liut said that was a unique circumstance that was aided by the fact that Nashville and Philadelphia had more time to make a deal because they did not have deep playoff runs. The players apparently preferred to leave because of Nashville's financial troubles at that time.

Liut said Malone is trying not to pay too much attention to the speculation regarding his impending free agency.

"He's looking at better than a 50-50 chance right now that he'll be changing teams," Liut said. "We'll see what happens in the next week or 10 days. His position has not changed. When July 1 comes around, he'll wind up someplace. We can't say where yet. He's trying not to overanalyze it. He's just waiting to see what happens. It's all a part of the beast now."

Malone is one of a dozen Penguins who can become unrestricted free agents July 1. The Penguins are believed to be concentrating their efforts on signing Marian Hossa to a long-term contract.

Well then why was Tampa Bay able to re-acquire the rights to Vaclav Prospal in a trade, Mike, if the "teams didn't have long playoff runs?" Last time I checked, the Cryers played in the ECF, yet they were able to get a 7th and conditional 4th from Tampa for the rights to Prospal. But oh well...it's Malone's choice and right to test the market if he wants to, and if speculation is true that he did this out of spite because the Pens low-balled him in his mind, then don't let the door hit you on the ass on your way out. Malone is NOT worth more than $5 million per season. It's as simple as that.

HometownGal

06-18-2008, 08:57 PM

Malone is NOT worth more than $5 million per season. It's as simple as that.

I love Bugs and feel he really came into his own this season, but being on a line with Malkin and Sykora mattered a whole helluva lot. That being said, however, Malone is replaceable and if he feels he can get a big payday from another team, see ya Bugs. :wave:

Penguins general manager Ray Shero and Marian Hossa's agent, Ritch Winter, had agreed not to speak with reporters about the negotiations for a new contract. But rampant speculation -- and what Winter termed misinformation -- prompted the agent to break his silence yesterday.

Several media outlets have reported that the Penguins extended a contract offer of between $50-52 million over seven years to Hossa, but Winter said those reports were off-base.

"The newspaper and television reports generated so far are completely inaccurate," Winter said. "None of the information has come from the principles involved in the discussions. Ray Shero and I have not spoken with anyone about a contract, so I have no idea where the information is coming from. There is not even one basic piece of information from those reports that are true."

Hossa, it appears, is the top priority for the Penguins, who are awaiting a decision from him before moving on to their other free agents. Hossa, who made $7 million last season, said during the Stanley Cup playoffs that money was not the overriding factor in a new contract. He indicated that he would take less money from the Penguins because they have a chance to win a championship.

The Penguins' other top priorities among potential free agents are defenseman Brooks Orpik and winger Ryan Malone. The Penguins have not begun negotiations with Orpik, but Lewis Gross, Orpik's agent, is scheduled to meet with Shero at the NHL draft this weekend in Ottawa.

Tuesday night, Malone's agent, Mike Liut, said Malone is "looking at better than a 50-50 chance that he'll be changing teams." Malone's situation seems contingent upon what Hossa does. If Hossa signs a long-term contract with the Penguins, Malone almost assuredly will sign elsewhere. If Hossa does not sign a deal, the Penguins could make a push to sign Malone.

Goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury could have become a restricted free agent July 1, but the Penguins filed for salary arbitration with Fleury last week. That move assured the Penguins that Fleury would be the team's goaltender next season and bought more time to work out a long-term contract.

X-Terminator

06-19-2008, 10:31 AM

You know, at this point I just want to get all of this over with. Let either one or both of them go on to greener pastures and let's get down to the business of setting the team for next season. All of this speculation is starting to grate on me, and I'm trying like hell to not even think about it.

For right now, it's pure speculation and I haven't seen anything credible to support this rumor. I can't see Shero trading Malkin - at least not now, with Malkin set to make a bargain basement salary next season. There would be a revolt among Pens fans for a long time if the Pens traded Geno away.

pittsburghp8baller

06-19-2008, 10:12 PM

For right now, it's pure speculation and I haven't seen anything credible to support this rumor. I can't see Shero trading Malkin - at least not now, with Malkin set to make a bargain basement salary next season. There would be a revolt among Pens fans for a long time if the Pens traded Geno away.

ya i really doubt think that we will trade malkin. i hope we dont trade him. but shero hasnt done anything to hurt us and if he trades malkin i do have faith that he did that for a reason. this is the 4th different 'source' that has mentioned this so unless LA is doing this there has got to be at least a 5% truth to this.

IF it were to happen, id take no less than JACK JOHNSON, their second overall pick and either camalleri or dustin brown (preferably dustin brown). if jack johnson is not among it i hang up the phone/walk away instantly.

but like i said i doubt it will happen and i dont want it to happen.

X-Terminator

06-20-2008, 12:19 AM

For right now, it's pure speculation and I haven't seen anything credible to support this rumor. I can't see Shero trading Malkin - at least not now, with Malkin set to make a bargain basement salary next season. There would be a revolt among Pens fans for a long time if the Pens traded Geno away.

Unless it comes from the team or a local newspaper, then it isn't going to happen. It doesn't make sense to trade him now - down the road, maybe, but not now. He's already said he doesn't have to make Crosby-type money to stay (though his agent wasn't happy about him saying so), so why would they even entertain the thought?

July 1 can't get here soon enough.

Counselor

06-20-2008, 10:21 AM

We'll know a lot more by the end of today with the draft starting. (Anyone know if Versus is airing it?)

No way are we trading Malkin---- it all BS.

I heard Gino's agent is all POd that his client talked about taking a hometown discount to the media! lol. All the Pens agents are crying over that---- and the players association too I'm sure----hopefully they won't change their client's minds. Crosby Malkin and Hossa for less than 35 million a year is a good deal.

We'll know a lot more by the end of today with the draft starting. (Anyone know if Versus is airing it?)

it is on versus but it only covers the first two rounds/mayb three i think and the pens dont pick (barring unlikely trade) till the fourth, so we wont see any of our picks being pick cause they dont air the second day

X-Terminator

06-20-2008, 12:12 PM

We'll know a lot more by the end of today with the draft starting. (Anyone know if Versus is airing it?)

No way are we trading Malkin---- it all BS.

I heard Gino's agent is all POd that his client talked about taking a hometown discount to the media! lol. All the Pens agents are crying over that---- and the players association too I'm sure----hopefully they won't change their client's minds. Crosby Malkin and Hossa for less than 35 million a year is a good deal.

The player's association shouldn't say one word about it when guys like Ryan Malone and Kristian Huselius are going to make more than $5 million per season when neither of them are worth that kind of coin. And of course the agents are going to cry because taking a hometown discount means less money for them. Player agents rate just above terrorists and despots on the "scum of the Earth" chart.

X-Terminator

06-21-2008, 01:15 AM

Well, day 1 of the NHL Draft has passed, and Evgeni Malkin is still a Penguin, despite all of the speculation.

Some notables:

- Olli Jokinen is now a Coyote in what has to be rated as the steal of the day and a bad trade for Florida. They didn't get anything close to what was first thought (Keith Ballard, Nick Boynton and a 2nd round pick).
- Calgary traded Alex Tanguay to Montreal and acquired Mike Cammalleri from LA.
- The Flyers traded Pittsburgh native R.J. Umberger to Columbus, meaning he now gets to play in the city he played college hockey (OSU).
- Jamal Mayers heads back to his hometown of Toronto from St. Louis.
- The Isles traded down twice in the first round in order to acquire more 2nd and 3rd round picks. They ended up picking 9th overall in the first round after starting with the 5th pick.
- Jason Spezza will NOT be traded, according to the Sens' GM. There was a lot of rumors surrounding him, including a possible deal for Jokinen.

pittsburghp8baller

06-21-2008, 11:38 AM

Well, day 1 of the NHL Draft has passed, and Evgeni Malkin is still a Penguin, despite all of the speculation.

Some notables:

- Olli Jokinen is now a Coyote in what has to be rated as the steal of the day and a bad trade for Florida. They didn't get anything close to what was first thought (Keith Ballard, Nick Boynton and a 2nd round pick).
- Calgary traded Alex Tanguay to Montreal and acquired Mike Cammalleri from LA.
- The Flyers traded Pittsburgh native R.J. Umberger to Columbus, meaning he now gets to play in the city he played college hockey (OSU).
- Jamal Mayers heads back to his hometown of Toronto from St. Louis.
- The Isles traded down twice in the first round in order to acquire more 2nd and 3rd round picks. They ended up picking 9th overall in the first round after starting with the 5th pick.
- Jason Spezza will NOT be traded, according to the Sens' GM. There was a lot of rumors surrounding him, including a possible deal for Jokinen.

Also dont forget the fourth and final Staal brother was drafted in the second round by Phoenix. He is gonna be the only Staal out there on the west coast. he will def spend a year or two still at juniors before joining the team but has a very good upside

Columbus had a good day; got a big forward in RJ Umberger and the best eurpeon player in nikita flitov. he compares his game to sidney crosby, speaks fluent english (speaks like 4 other languages). hmm a russian "playmaker" i didnt know they made those. im really excited to see him in the NHL whether it be this year or next year

with the 180the selection of the 2008 NHL entry draft the Pittsburgh Penguins select- Patrick Kellen Goalie, Brampton of the OHL

hmm, two goalies with our second and third pick???

pittsburghp8baller

06-21-2008, 02:16 PM

with the 210th pick in the 2008 NHL entry draft the Pittsburgh Penguins select Nicolas D'Agostino Defenseman OPJHL St. Michaels

X-Terminator

06-21-2008, 02:21 PM

I don't know why we even need goalies. In addition to Fleury and Sabourin, we have John Curry and David Brown in WBS. There should have been another defenseman picked in there.

KeiselPower99

06-21-2008, 02:40 PM

Did yall hear the rumor of a Russian Hockey League offering Malin 12.5 million to come home and play????

pittsburghp8baller

06-21-2008, 02:46 PM

I don't know why we even need goalies. In addition to Fleury and Sabourin, we have John Curry and David Brown in WBS. There should have been another defenseman picked in there.

mind u that they both are either not 18 or just turned 18. neither will even be at wilkes-barre till two seasons from now at the earliest. we can always use the depth at goalie. none of our draft picks will be impacts for a couple of years from now.

pittsburghp8baller

06-21-2008, 02:50 PM

Did yall hear the rumor of a Russian Hockey League offering Malin 12.5 million to come home and play????

tax-free dollars. yea it was all over sportscenter. the IIHF (International Ice Hockey Federation) issued a statement

Well, just as I thought would happen, Hossa has decided not to take the Pens' offer and will test free agency, though to smooth things over, he said the Pens "are at the top of his list." Yeah sure, Marian. I'll believe that when I see it, because right now, you are looking like just another lying athlete who would rather chase the money than have a chance to win a Cup. I expect you to be playing for and losing with another team come July 1. Hope the money's worth it.

OTTAWA -- Marian Hossa has declined an offer to sign a long-term deal with the Penguins and will test free agency.

General manager Ray Shero said today after the NHL Entry Draft at Scotiabank Place that Hossa, a star right wing acquired Feb. 26, will offers his services to other teams as an unrestricted free agent on July 1.

Shero said he is "comfortable" with the offer presented to Hossa to remain in Pittsburgh, though Shero would not provide specifics of terms.

Hossa said after the Stanley Cup final he would take "less (money) to play for a good team."

Shero said Hossa never said those words to him, but added that Hossa said today the Penguins are at the top of his list come July 1.

"I've talked to him and his agent (Ritch Winter) lots, and we look to be his first choice," Shero said. "But he's gonna go to July 1 just to make sure, and we'll see what that brings both of us. We've made a very fair contract offer. From Marian's standpoint, he wants to be sure. He knows the risks involved (in testing free agency), and so do we."

I don't know why we even need goalies. In addition to Fleury and Sabourin, we have John Curry and David Brown in WBS. There should have been another defenseman picked in there.

I don't understand those moves either, but maybe they will offer a goalie or two as trade bait down the road? Can't think of any other reason why the Pens drafted 2 goalies instead of another Dman.

HometownGal

06-21-2008, 03:50 PM

Well, just as I thought would happen, Hossa has decided not to take the Pens' offer and will test free agency, though to smooth things over, he said the Pens "are at the top of his list." Yeah sure, Marian. I'll believe that when I see it, because right now, you are looking like just another lying athlete who would rather chase the money than have a chance to win a Cup. I expect you to be playing for and losing with another team come July 1. Hope the money's worth it.

OTTAWA -- Marian Hossa has declined an offer to sign a long-term deal with the Penguins and will test free agency.

General manager Ray Shero said today after the NHL Entry Draft at Scotiabank Place that Hossa, a star right wing acquired Feb. 26, will offers his services to other teams as an unrestricted free agent on July 1.

Shero said he is "comfortable" with the offer presented to Hossa to remain in Pittsburgh, though Shero would not provide specifics of terms.

Hossa said after the Stanley Cup final he would take "less (money) to play for a good team."

Shero said Hossa never said those words to him, but added that Hossa said today the Penguins are at the top of his list come July 1.

"I've talked to him and his agent (Ritch Winter) lots, and we look to be his first choice," Shero said. "But he's gonna go to July 1 just to make sure, and we'll see what that brings both of us. We've made a very fair contract offer. From Marian's standpoint, he wants to be sure. He knows the risks involved (in testing free agency), and so do we."

I really felt that Hoss would grab up the Pens offer based on his own statements after the Stanley Cup finals. I'm still holding out hope that he will sign with the Pens but if he doesn't, that's the way the cookie crumbles.

X-Terminator

06-21-2008, 04:09 PM

I really felt that Hoss would grab up the Pens offer based on his own statements after the Stanley Cup finals. I'm still holding out hope that he will sign with the Pens but if he doesn't, that's the way the cookie crumbles.

I never believed he would from the beginning, because lots of athletes have said they'd take less money to stay with a winner, only to end up going to the first team that offers him more. Just like the rest of them, he apparently is going to let his agent convince him to go after the money, rather than tell his agent that HE works for HIM and that this is what HE wants to do. Compare his situation to Geno's, who has said and his agent confirmed that he will indeed take a hometown discount in order to give the Pens cap room to keep as much of the team together as possible. That's because he cares only about winning, and the money is secondary to him.

I really hope Hoss does re-sign with the Pens. I really do. But I'm not holding my breath. And when he does leave, the Pens will be up shit creek, because Malone will likely be out the door as well, leaving them with 2 gaping holes on their top 2 lines.

SteelCityMan786

06-21-2008, 04:47 PM

I don't know why we even need goalies. In addition to Fleury and Sabourin, we have John Curry and David Brown in WBS. There should have been another defenseman picked in there.

He could be depth for Wheeling. That's probably all. Now they could also be not interested in re-signing Conklin.

pittsburghp8baller

06-22-2008, 02:38 AM

He could be depth for Wheeling. That's probably all. Now they could also be not interested in re-signing Conklin.

like i said none of our draft picks will be at Pittsburgh/Wilkes-Barre/Wheeling. even after u get drafted u are still elibible to play with your junior team for a couple of years (canadien juniors till your 20 i think). the AHL/ECHL isnt the only place where our prospects play. (we have 5 in college and a couple more still in juniors last i checked)

the quickest person i can see making it up is Nathan Moon. he will prob do what luca caputi did last year, join wilkes barre after his season is over for Kingston. with our decent depth at goalie i say let the two stay with their teams. pechurski did decent at U-18 this year over the year before and Killeen played a lot better in his second season in brampton.

why start paying for their contracts when they more than likely wont get any playing time at any level. a lot of our prospects from the few previous drafts are gonna be tryn for a spot at Pittsburgh and those who dont make it will probably be left at Wilkes-Barre to start the season

Counselor

06-23-2008, 09:51 AM

I never believed he would from the beginning, because lots of athletes have said they'd take less money to stay with a winner, only to end up going to the first team that offers him more. Just like the rest of them, he apparently is going to let his agent convince him to go after the money, rather than tell his agent that HE works for HIM and that this is what HE wants to do. Compare his situation to Geno's, who has said and his agent confirmed that he will indeed take a hometown discount in order to give the Pens cap room to keep as much of the team together as possible. That's because he cares only about winning, and the money is secondary to him.

I really hope Hoss does re-sign with the Pens. I really do. But I'm not holding my breath. And when he does leave, the Pens will be up shit creek, because Malone will likely be out the door as well, leaving them with 2 gaping holes on their top 2 lines.

Don't be too hard on Hoss. He is 29 years old and this is his shot for the biggest contract of his career. I hope he signs with us---but I know chances are he won't. The penguins knew going in to the trade what they were doing----if he did well they couldn't afford him and if he didn't do well they might not want him.

Who knows maybe he just truly wants to see what else is offered before he signs (we can only pray! lol)

I love what Malkin and his agent are saying, I think its awesome, but he's in a totally different situation---his best years are way ahead of him--he's got plenty of time to mke plenty of $ (and he will) Malkin also has more of himself invested in this team than Hoss does.

I really don't think the Hoss offered deal impacted Malone's lack of a deal. The fact is the Penguins were NOT going to pay Malone anything near what he can get on the open market. They were never going to pay him 4.5-5.5 million----whether or not Hossa ever came to the team. Malone is good and I love him, he's a great leader, but I don't think the Pens can justify the $ he wants.
Malone is in the same boat at Hossa in that this is his big contract year---if you are going to get big $, its going to be now (especially since they made it to the finals.) I will be happy for Malone whereever he signs (hopefully not our division though! lol)

As for the gaping holes----we'll fill them---just look at what we started last season with----not much more than we have now (Malone and Armstrong) and we'll sign some FA's
At the trade deadline, if we're in the hunt, we'll always be able to pick up a "rental player" for the playoffs.
Keep the core four together and we'll be fine.

Lord Stiller

06-23-2008, 10:31 AM

it is stupid to complain about the Pens not drafting a defenseman, really stupid

what happened with the Malone to Columbus deal? Philly just raped them with the Umberger trade, that's what we should have done :(

X-Terminator

06-24-2008, 11:31 AM

Don't be too hard on Hoss. He is 29 years old and this is his shot for the biggest contract of his career. I hope he signs with us---but I know chances are he won't. The penguins knew going in to the trade what they were doing----if he did well they couldn't afford him and if he didn't do well they might not want him.

Who knows maybe he just truly wants to see what else is offered before he signs (we can only pray! lol)

I love what Malkin and his agent are saying, I think its awesome, but he's in a totally different situation---his best years are way ahead of him--he's got plenty of time to mke plenty of $ (and he will) Malkin also has more of himself invested in this team than Hoss does.

I really don't think the Hoss offered deal impacted Malone's lack of a deal. The fact is the Penguins were NOT going to pay Malone anything near what he can get on the open market. They were never going to pay him 4.5-5.5 million----whether or not Hossa ever came to the team. Malone is good and I love him, he's a great leader, but I don't think the Pens can justify the $ he wants.
Malone is in the same boat at Hossa in that this is his big contract year---if you are going to get big $, its going to be now (especially since they made it to the finals.) I will be happy for Malone whereever he signs (hopefully not our division though! lol)

As for the gaping holes----we'll fill them---just look at what we started last season with----not much more than we have now (Malone and Armstrong) and we'll sign some FA's
At the trade deadline, if we're in the hunt, we'll always be able to pick up a "rental player" for the playoffs.
Keep the core four together and we'll be fine.

Well, after calming down and thinking about it, you are correct. This is Hoss' last shot at a huge payday, and if some team comes along and offers him $8 million per season, he'd be stupid not to take it. But I still don't like the fact that he said one thing and chose to do another - it hurts his credibility and makes fans, me included, not trust his word. That said, I strongly feel his agent is behind this decision. I wouldn't wish anything ill on him or boo him if he signs elsewhere and comes back (unless of course it's the Rangers, Flyers or Avs).

As for Malone, the minute he decided he wanted $5 million per season is when the talks with the Pens ended. Even if they don't re-sign Hossa, I don't think they bring back Malone for that price. He's not a $5 or 5.5 million per year player - he should get something in the neighborhood of what Scott Hartnell got from the Flyers last season - $4.2 million - and even that is stretching it. People forget that he struggled quite a bit the first half of the season, and it wasn't until they put him with Malkin and Sykora after Crosby went down that he thrived. The Pens are smart to not overpay for him based on 1/2 a season when he'd underachieved big time up until that point. But you're right - so long as they retain the core, they can bring in guys to play with Sid and Geno, and still contend for the Cup.

it is stupid to complain about the Pens not drafting a defenseman, really stupid

what happened with the Malone to Columbus deal? Philly just raped them with the Umberger trade, that's what we should have done :(

Malone decided to test the market and nixed the trade.

And how is it stupid to complain about the Pens drafting a defenseman? I still don't believe they're going to re-sign Orpik, so that is why I suggested it. If you think it's stupid, so be it. I'd still advocate for it if they did, because you can never have too much depth on defense. Just ask the Devils.

X-Terminator

06-24-2008, 11:43 AM

Gary Roberts has decided to move on. I'd have loved to see him back for one last run at the Cup, but the Pens just can't fit his salary demands into the budget. Good luck, Scary Gary! We'll miss ya!

This also, unfortunately, does not bode well for our team toughness, and unless we get a couple of tough guys in here to replace Roberts, Malone and likely Ruutu, teams like the Flyers are going to run Crosby and Geno all season long - Laraque or no Laraque. I'd rather not see a repeat of the crap they had to deal with pre-Laraque and Roberts, thank you very much.

What Would Gary Roberts Do?

Move on, apparently.

Rick Curran, who represents Roberts -- a veritable folk hero in his season-plus with the Penguins -- said yesterday that Roberts will continue playing, but not in Pittsburgh.

"He very much enjoyed his time there," Curran said. "But he understands that Ray [Shero, the Penguins' general manager] has a number of items on his agenda that would take priority."

Curran added that Roberts, 42, "most definitely" intends to continue his career and will decide where after reaching unrestricted free agency next Tuesday.

The Penguins acquired Roberts from Florida Feb. 27, 2007, for defenseman Noah Welch, and he endeared himself to fans almost immediately with his intensity and physical style of play.

He had seven goals and six assists in 19 games with the Penguins at the end of 2006-07, and three goals and 12 assists in 38 appearances in 2007-08. He missed more than half the season while recovering from a broken leg and high ankle sprain.

"He wants to have a good solid season [in 2008-09], injury-free," Curran said.

Roberts was paid $2.5 million the past season and, with the Penguins' salary-cap concerns, giving that kind of money to a fourth-liner who fills a fairly limited role simply isn't viable.

"He had a real good experience there, and he's glad that he came," Curran said. "But he's going to look for opportunities somewhere else."

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08176/892177-61.stm

Also, the Blackhawks and Bruins are 2 teams rumored to be interested in Hossa. It wouldn't shock me if the Jackets and Canucks make a bid for him too.

Lord Stiller

06-24-2008, 12:57 PM

Malone decided to test the market and nixed the trade.

And how is it stupid to complain about the Pens drafting a defenseman? I still don't believe they're going to re-sign Orpik, so that is why I suggested it. If you think it's stupid, so be it. I'd still advocate for it if they did, because you can never have too much depth on defense. Just ask the Devils.

Our first pick was in the 4th round. Drafting a defenseman in the 4th round doesn't help us in the present or near future. The Pens are very high on the 2 goalies they chose, gotta trust their scouts

Lord Stiller

06-24-2008, 01:00 PM

Gary Roberts has decided to move on. I'd have loved to see him back for one last run at the Cup, but the Pens just can't fit his salary demands into the budget. Good luck, Scary Gary! We'll miss ya!

This also, unfortunately, does not bode well for our team toughness, and unless we get a couple of tough guys in here to replace Roberts, Malone and likely Ruutu, teams like the Flyers are going to run Crosby and Geno all season long - Laraque or no Laraque. I'd rather not see a repeat of the crap they had to deal with pre-Laraque and Roberts, thank you very much.

Even worse is if we lose Orpik, teams will run into our goalie all year long

Roberts cant play a full season anyways. We are better off spending the money elsewhere. I hear Laraque is willing to take a paycut to stay

Lord Stiller

06-24-2008, 02:09 PM

getting back on topic, im starting to think we might actually be better off without Hossa and using that money to resign Orpik (5 years 17 million) and go after a free agent goal scoring winger (Rolston or Ryder come to mind) and possibly extending Staal

im assuming Malkin will be resigned for 6 yrs 51 million (i heard Malkin is willing to sign a 5 or 6 year deal for around 8.5 mill a year.....we should really try to get him for 6 yrs instead of 5)

X-Terminator

06-24-2008, 09:38 PM

Our first pick was in the 4th round. Drafting a defenseman in the 4th round doesn't help us in the present or near future. The Pens are very high on the 2 goalies they chose, gotta trust their scouts

I realize that, but you gotta remember that Gonchar and Gill aren't getting any younger and aren't going to be around forever. Why not draft a guy in the 4th round, develop him so that in 3 years, he's ready to step in after Gonchar moves on and Whitney becomes our #1 defenseman? You need quality depth on D in order to win consistently.

Even worse is if we lose Orpik, teams will run into our goalie all year long

Roberts cant play a full season anyways. We are better off spending the money elsewhere. I hear Laraque is willing to take a paycut to stay

If so, that's great, but I'd still rather have Darcy Hordichuk as our enforcer. He chose not to sign with the Canes after they traded for his rights, so he's still out there. He's younger, quicker, is not a liability on the ice, hits like a truck and is more willing to do his job than Laraque.

getting back on topic, im starting to think we might actually be better off without Hossa and using that money to resign Orpik (5 years 17 million) and go after a free agent goal scoring winger (Rolston or Ryder come to mind) and possibly extending Staal

im assuming Malkin will be resigned for 6 yrs 51 million (i heard Malkin is willing to sign a 5 or 6 year deal for around 8.5 mill a year.....we should really try to get him for 6 yrs instead of 5)

Rolston would be a good pickup, but he is already 34 years old. How much does he have left? He does do everything that Hossa can do - 2-way player (you have to be under Lemaire), can play both wings, kills penalties, plays on the PP, often times at the point, and has an absolute howitzer for a shot - even harder than Gonchar. He just isn't quite the natural goal scorer that Hossa is. But he would come a heck of a lot cheaper than Hossa would. The Wild are actively trying to re-sign him though, so we'll see. I do see Ryder in a Pens uniform though. At around $2.5 million per season, he could be a bargain if he gets back to his 30 goal form from 2 years ago.

I've heard Malkin has been offered a 4 or 5 year deal worth $8.5 million per season, but I vote for 6 as well, and buy out his first 2 years of UFA.

pittsburghp8baller

06-24-2008, 10:04 PM

I realize that, but you gotta remember that Gonchar and Gill aren't getting any younger and aren't going to be around forever. Why not draft a guy in the 4th round, develop him so that in 3 years, he's ready to step in after Gonchar moves on and Whitney becomes our #1 defenseman? You need quality depth on D in order to win consistently.

i understand that, but we got a lot of defense in our system. a lot more than people think. we have enough and most our closer than where a fourth/fifth round pick would be this year.

im really looking foward to seeing Brian Strait play hopefully this year. he was the captain of the US team at the world juniors. he is suppose to be a pretty good d-man

we also got alex goligoski, paul bissonnette, sneep (BC)

pittsburghp8baller

06-25-2008, 08:51 AM

Canucks interested in Hossa, Malone
TheFourthPeriod.com

The Vancouver Canucks are projected to be very active in the free agent market and could go after Penguins stars Marian Hossa and Ryan Malone.
According to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, the Canucks are considered a serious contender for Hossa.

Hossa and Malone will become unrestricted free agents July 1.

While the Canucks will be hot on Hossa's trail, the paper notes Vancouver might not be able to offer Hossa his desired annual salary of $8 million over five years.

The Canucks are, however, expected to pitch a long-term contract offer likely worth more than $5 million for Malone's services.
The Boston Bruins, New York Rangers and Chicago Blackhawks will also make an offer for Hossa, while the Edmonton Oilers, Minnesota Wild and Columbus Blue Jackets will bid for Malone.

If the Canucks are able to sign Hossa, that will likely mark the end of Markus Naslund's tenure in Vancouver.

Naslund, an unrestricted free agent, will field offers from other teams July 1.

Well if they both leave hopefully its to a team like vancouver far out on the west coast and where we will play them only once

The Penguins are expected to present defenseman Brooks Orpik with a contract offer some time today, reports the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.
Orpik is one of 12 Penguins players that can become an unrestricted free agent on July 1.

According to the Tribune-Review, Orpik is looking for a long-term contract worth in between $3.5 million and $4 million per season.

Orpik could test the free agent market next Tuesday, but even if that happens, the paper suggests the Penguins have a solid chance at re-signing him.

The Tribune-Review also reports forwards Pascal Dupuis, Jarkko Ruutu, Georges Laraque and Adam Hall will also field offers July 1.

If (and it looks to be so) the Pens sign Orpik, Malkin and Fleury to reasonably priced extensions; i for one will be a happy camper.

pittsburghp8baller

06-25-2008, 10:25 AM

Thanks for posting!

Keeping Orpik's physical presence on our blue is key imo.

If (and it looks to be so) the Pens sign Orpik, Malkin and Fleury to reasonably priced extensions; i for one will be a happy camper.

looking over the possible free agents, there are a few people i wouldnt mind picking up if we somehow fail to resign Orpik

Jim Vandermeer- physical defenseman, solid 2nd or 3rd pair defense and will drop the gloves when needed (if he hits the market and we dont get Laraque back then this is someone i think we would need)- UFA 07-08 salary 1,225,000

Jay Boumeester- one of the best young physical d-man in the NHL and at 24 he would be ready for a long term deal that will sure up that Defense spot for the long term RFA- 2,175,000

Rob Blake- his name came up here around trade deadline time. the obvious minus' are his age and injury tendency but look at the upside. u got a great physical leader that will give you a great presence on the PP and PK. UFA 07-08 salary 6,000,000

Mike Commodore- best known for his red 'fro commodore was a big part of the carolina hurricanes stanley cup victory and also had a big part with Calgary and coming within a game of the stanley cup. wont light up the scoreboard (hey but neither does orpik) UFA 1,250,000 (might not be a good fit if malone was still on the team as they have scrapped a couple of times but hell malone aint gonna be here)

Christian Ehrhoff- 'great offensive ability, a great quarterback for your powerplay' says one scout. while we dont need another powerplay specialtist at 6'2 Ehrhoff is still a physical force and is more relable in his own zone than whitney is right now. RFA 2007-08 salary- 850,000

X-Terminator

06-25-2008, 10:28 AM

Canucks interested in Hossa, Malone
TheFourthPeriod.com

Well if they both leave hopefully its to a team like vancouver far out on the west coast and where we will play them only once

http://thefourthperiod.com/news/van080625.html

Uh huh, called that one - I knew Vancouver would be interested in Hossa, and I already knew they were interested in Malone. I can't see how the Rangers could possibly fit Hossa in their salary structure when they are already paying big bucks to Scott Gomez, Chris Drury and Henrik Lundqvist. Those three by themselves will cost the Rangers $21 million starting next season. They're also interested in signing Brian Campbell and re-signing Jagr, and had apparently talked to Mats Sundin before the Habs did. Where are they going to get the money? Someone needs to remind them that we have this thing called the salary cap, which means they can't hog all of the talent anymore. Both the Bruins and the Blackhawks have the cap space to offer Hossa $8 million per season, so if he goes anywhere, it'll be to one of those 2 teams.

Malone is going to end up out west, probably Minnesota where he makes his summer home.

pittsburghp8baller

06-25-2008, 10:34 AM

Uh huh, called that one - I knew Vancouver would be interested in Hossa, and I already knew they were interested in Malone. I can't see how the Rangers could possibly fit Hossa in their salary structure when they are already paying big bucks to Scott Gomez, Chris Drury and Henrik Lundqvist. Those three by themselves will cost the Rangers $21 million starting next season. They're also interested in signing Brian Campbell and re-signing Jagr, and had apparently talked to Mats Sundin before the Habs did. Where are they going to get the money? Someone needs to remind them that we have this thing called the salary cap, which means they can't hog all of the talent anymore. Both the Bruins and the Blackhawks have the cap space to offer Hossa $8 million per season, so if he goes anywhere, it'll be to one of those 2 teams.

Malone is going to end up out west, probably Minnesota where he makes his summer home.

thats why the Rangers ownership is under investigation, they dont think the rules apply to them apparently. blackhawks have expressed interest in hossa and brian campbell as they could use a top 6 forward and a puck moving D-man. it is doubtful they can sign both but it is withing reason that hossa ends up a blackhawk next year. i think malone would be a good fit in minnesota's system he plays good two way hockey. i follow the NHL real close and other than the pens the wild are next in line for me.

Lord Stiller

06-25-2008, 11:02 AM

blackhawks have expressed interest in hossa and brian campbell as they could use a top 6 forward and a puck moving D-man.

Whitney for Seabrook trade......get on the horn Shero!!!!

pittsburghp8baller

06-25-2008, 01:13 PM

Whitney for Seabrook trade......get on the horn Shero!!!!

Is there a suggestion box we can drop these things in for shero? id take seabrook- cheaper, younger, more physical and could handle playing top end minutes along side Gonchar.

But we are likely to keep Whitney. when you make an investment like that, you gotta stick with your gun. if you trade him you lose creditbility and every move you make will be questioned. if we do trade him it is during his last year of his contract to try and get something in return for him

Lord Stiller

06-25-2008, 02:40 PM

dont know how true it is but it is rumored that Marcus Naslund is looking for a 1 year deal for 3-3.5 million.

I wouldn't mind that deal for the Pens

HometownGal

06-25-2008, 03:33 PM

dont know how true it is but it is rumored that Marcus Naslund is looking for a 1 year deal for 3-3.5 million.

I wouldn't mind that deal for the Pens

I sure wouldn't mind having Naslund play for the Pens next season, but I'd still prefer to keep Hoss, though it is looking grim that he will sign with the Pens.

Counselor

06-26-2008, 10:09 AM

I sure wouldn't mind having Naslund play for the Pens next season, but I'd still prefer to keep Hoss, though it is looking grim that he will sign with the Pens.

Agreed. I heard Vancuouver will probably not be able to come up with the $ for Hossa, but they might make a better run at Malone. We shall see. If the rumours of our offer are right ----7 million over 7 years-----if no team goes much over 8 million in their offers, I think we still have a good shot at signing Hoss. If any team gets close to that 9-10 million range, we won't have a prayer. Boston might be that team---they seem to really want Hossa.

Hope Orpik signs soon. Next week should be pretty crazy.

pittsburghp8baller

06-26-2008, 10:22 AM

Agreed. I heard Vancuouver will probably not be able to come up with the $ for Hossa, but they might make a better run at Malone. We shall see. If the rumours of our offer are right ----7 million over 7 years-----if no team goes much over 8 million in their offers, I think we still have a good shot at signing Hoss. If any team gets close to that 9-10 million range, we won't have a prayer. Boston might be that team---they seem to really want Hossa.

Hope Orpik signs soon. Next week should be pretty crazy.

i heard boston is ready to offer 8-8.5 a year and chicago is suppose to be another team trying to get hossa

X-Terminator

06-26-2008, 10:28 AM

Agreed. I heard Vancuouver will probably not be able to come up with the $ for Hossa, but they might make a better run at Malone. We shall see. If the rumours of our offer are right ----7 million over 7 years-----if no team goes much over 8 million in their offers, I think we still have a good shot at signing Hoss. If any team gets close to that 9-10 million range, we won't have a prayer. Boston might be that team---they seem to really want Hossa.

Hope Orpik signs soon. Next week should be pretty crazy.

Boston ain't going to pay Hossa close to $9 million. You have to remember who's in charge up there. Harry Sinden may be gone, but the ownership hasn't changed. Plus, you have to keep in mind that they are paying a pretty penny for Zdeno Chara and Marc Savard, who incidentally was Hossa's center in Atlanta the year he scored 43 goals, the next 2 seasons. Patrice Bergeron is scheduled to make $5 million, Marco Sturm $3.5 million and Manny Fernandez $4.75 million. They might come up with $8 million per season (though I doubt it given who they have under contract), but anything more than that, forget it. Chicago has a better shot at paying him that much.

The Wild has not heard back from Brian Rolston's agent, Steve Bartlett, since last week and it appears the veteran forward is heading for free agency, reports the Minneapolis Star-Tribune.
Minnesota has pitched three contract offers to Rolston, but have yet to receive a counter proposal.

"I don't know if it's totally dead because they've characterized it to us that they wanted to continue open talking," Wild assistant GM Tom Lynn told the Tribune-Review. "So while it may not be totally dead, it's not going anywhere right now.

"I've never gotten a call from [Bartlett] that wasn't initiated by me, and there's nothing going on now."
The Wild has received trade offers for Rolston's negotiating rights, but the team has yet to allow other teams to speak with Rolston.

Rolston, 35, is believed to be looking for a two-year contract worth in between $4 million and $5 million per season.

reasonably price for a 35 year old player who may or may not break 30 goals again?

According to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, impending unrestricted free agent defenseman Brooks Orpik's desire is to stay with the Penguins.
The Penguins and Orpik's agent, Lewis Gross, are engaged in contract negotiations that are expected to continue today.

The paper claims the Penguins are expected to present Orpik with a formal offer, if they haven't already done so.

Orpik, 27, is believed to a looking for a long-term contract worth around $3.5 million per season.

pittsburghp8baller

06-26-2008, 11:36 AM

Straka Leaves NHL for Czech League

http://www.comcast.net/articles/sports-nhl/20080626/Rangers-Straka/

might Jagr be next?

So long straka you where one of my favorite players when you were a Penguin.

Lord Stiller

06-26-2008, 11:58 AM

you know, we could get Jagr back

too bad all the fans boo'd him so much

pittsburghp8baller

06-26-2008, 01:16 PM

you know, we could get Jagr back

too bad all the fans boo'd him so much

no thank you. if we go after a older player id rather go after rolston who is so much more versitilie. Rolston is one of the few players who can wind up and take a slap shot on a shotout and score consistanly. ive seen JS Giguere duck and get out of the way of one of his shots. Jagr is way over the hill, he may come cheaper than rolston but id rather invest into a player like Rolston for a couple of years than Jagr who really has nothing left to give

Defenseman Brooks Orpik has received, and rejected, a contract offer from the Penguins.
"We did receive an offer, which we turned down," said Orpik's agent, Lewis Gross. "But we're still talking."
He declined to say whether he was optimistic about whether a deal could be reached before Tuesday, when Orpik qualifies for unrestricted free agency.

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08178/892906-100.stm

pittsburghp8baller

06-26-2008, 09:33 PM

Orpik rejects Penguins contract offer

Defenseman Brooks Orpik has received, and rejected, a contract offer from the Penguins.
"We did receive an offer, which we turned down," said Orpik's agent, Lewis Gross. "But we're still talking."
He declined to say whether he was optimistic about whether a deal could be reached before Tuesday, when Orpik qualifies for unrestricted free agency.

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08178/892906-100.stm

wow that sucks. hopefully we can come to something before july 1. im sure there are some teams with a offer waiting (rangers) for july 1 to hit so than they can send their offers

Counselor

06-27-2008, 09:22 AM

wow that sucks. hopefully we can come to something before july 1. im sure there are some teams with a offer waiting (rangers) for july 1 to hit so than they can send their offers

Seems like no one is signing---even on the other teams. Everyone (or rather their agents) want to see what money is available with the new cap space. Shero has a tough job as of July 1. ugh.

rbryan

06-27-2008, 10:40 AM

No time to panic. Shero knows what he's doing. It's been a foregone conclusion that we were going to lose several players this offseason. Theres a lot of teams in the same boat and a lot of talent that won't get top dollar that will be available.

X-Terminator

06-28-2008, 05:02 PM

The Pens have traded the rights to Malone and Roberts to the Lightning for a 4th round draft pick in 2009:

The Tampa Bay Lightning's new ownership group vowed to be "staggeringly aggressive' in the NHL's free agent sweepstakes and they are trying to get a head start on that.

Sources tell TSN the Lightning have traded a fourth-round draft pick to the Pittsburgh Penguins in exchange for the exclusive negotiating rights to forwards Ryan Malone and Gary Roberts, who are scheduled to become unrestricted free agents on July 1.

Sources say if the Lightning were to sign Malone, the more coveted free agent of the two, the fourth-round pick would become a third round pick.

Malone has indicated he intends to go to July 1 to see what the market would bear for his services. Whether this development changes that remains to be seen. It is more likely the Lightning may be able to sign the veteran Roberts, who said during the playoffs that he intended to play again but knew it would not be for the Penguins.

http://tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=241905&l...=topStory_main

Looks like the Bolts' new owners aren't messing around.

Right now, the Pens are going to compete with the Canadiens and Islanders as the softest team in the league. If they lose Orpik, Laraque and Ruutu, they will have absolutely NO toughness in the lineup other than Hal Gill. Teams are going to take a LOT of liberties against Crosby and Malkin unless Ray Shero brings in some more tough guys to replace them.

pittsburghp8baller

06-28-2008, 07:41 PM

The Pens have traded the rights to Malone and Roberts to the Lightning for a 4th round draft pick in 2009:

http://tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=241905&l...=topStory_main

Looks like the Bolts' new owners aren't messing around.

Right now, the Pens are going to compete with the Canadiens and Islanders as the softest team in the league. If they lose Orpik, Laraque and Ruutu, they will have absolutely NO toughness in the lineup other than Hal Gill. Teams are going to take a LOT of liberties against Crosby and Malkin unless Ray Shero brings in some more tough guys to replace them.

have faith, im sure shero is realizing this too. he will def address these needs in FA. Shero has never given me a reason to doubt him and i doubt he will disappoint the fans or the team.

im sure malone will sign with TB as they are really starting to look like a team that can compete in a weak southeastern division, so we are looking at a third round at least next year. i say we can take out two needs with one player in by getting jim vandermeer or dustin byfuglien. both should come cheep and add taht physical presence from the back line. i dont know the chances of us getting them (i doubt there are even on Shero's radar) but i watch a lot of hockey and whenever i see Calgary and Chicago play these guys stick out.

X-Terminator

06-28-2008, 09:21 PM

have faith, im sure shero is realizing this too. he will def address these needs in FA. Shero has never given me a reason to doubt him and i doubt he will disappoint the fans or the team.

im sure malone will sign with TB as they are really starting to look like a team that can compete in a weak southeastern division, so we are looking at a third round at least next year. i say we can take out two needs with one player in by getting jim vandermeer or dustin byfuglien. both should come cheep and add taht physical presence from the back line. i dont know the chances of us getting them (i doubt there are even on Shero's radar) but i watch a lot of hockey and whenever i see Calgary and Chicago play these guys stick out.

Adding Byfuglien would be awesome, and Vandermeer definitely provides everything that Orpik does, and can take on HW fighters. Being a former captain, he also will provide some leadership. Of course, it all hinges on whether or not Orpik re-signs. Speaking of HWs, how about taking a look at Eric Godard if he doesn't re-sign with the Flames and if Laraque moves on? He proved last year that he can take a shift on the 4th line and not be a liability, and is pretty willing.

I think the combination of Barry Melrose and the Tampa sunshine will convince Malone to sign with with the Bolts. He'd really be a nice fit with the type of team they're trying to build there, which may be the East's version of the Anaheim Ducks - tough, physical and skilled. Roberts may be a tougher sell - he would be farther away from his family, and you figure that will weigh into his decision. We'll see though.

To tell you the truth, I just want all of this to be over. I've already accepted that the Pens' roster is in for a major upheaval, now I just want them to bring in the right guys to compliment the core we have and remain a true Stanley Cup contender.

SteelCityMan786

06-28-2008, 10:09 PM

So with Hossa looking to go to the market, then this trade, here's the latest list on the RW/LW market.(Pens UFAs in BOLD)

Adding Byfuglien would be awesome, and Vandermeer definitely provides everything that Orpik does, and can take on HW fighters. Being a former captain, he also will provide some leadership. Of course, it all hinges on whether or not Orpik re-signs. Speaking of HWs, how about taking a look at Eric Godard if he doesn't re-sign with the Flames and if Laraque moves on? He proved last year that he can take a shift on the 4th line and not be a liability, and is pretty willing.

I think the combination of Barry Melrose and the Tampa sunshine will convince Malone to sign with with the Bolts. He'd really be a nice fit with the type of team they're trying to build there, which may be the East's version of the Anaheim Ducks - tough, physical and skilled. Roberts may be a tougher sell - he would be farther away from his family, and you figure that will weigh into his decision. We'll see though.

To tell you the truth, I just want all of this to be over. I've already accepted that the Pens' roster is in for a major upheaval, now I just want them to bring in the right guys to compliment the core we have and remain a true Stanley Cup contender.

i cant wait for july 1 to come. if we are gonna compete next season we will have to be very active so im looking forward to it. thefourthperiod.com is a great site to go to for rumors and ive heard that hockeybuzz.com is a good one too, but you got to regsiter. im gonna be spending a lot of time there to keep up on all the 'rumors' involving the pens and all teams.

Eric Godard would be a great presence to whoever signs him, as far as i know he handles holds his own in all of his fights, even held his own in his one against Laraque this season

X-Terminator

06-29-2008, 06:08 PM

According to Sportsnet.ca, both Malone and Roberts have signed on with TB. Malone's contract is absolutely friggin ridiculous - the man has never scored 30 goals in his career and his 51 points last season are a career high - and he's going to get TWICE the money that Petr Sykora will get next season, who outscored him in both goals and points? Unbelievable. The NHL is doomed, folks.

Sportsnet.ca -- The Tampa Bay Lightning have agreed to terms with forward Ryan Malone on what is expected to be a seven-year deal exceeding just over $31 million, Sportsnet has learned.

The Lightning acquired the right to both Malone and Gary Roberts from the Pittsburgh Penguins on Saturday.

Roberts is close to signing a one-year deal with Tampa Bay that has the potential to reach $2 million.

An announcement could come as early as Monday.

The Lightning have signed hockey scout Greg Malone from the Phoenix Coyotes. Greg is the father of Ryan Malone. Also joining the team is former agent Tom Kurvers, who now takes a front office job along side Brian Lawton.

http://sportsnet.ca/hockey/2008/06/29/lightning_signings/

EDIT: The deal is 7 years, $31.5 million: http://tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=242037&lid=headline&lpos=topStory_main

The Bolts also acquired the rights to Brian Rolston from Minnesota: http://ww3.startribune.com/blogs/wildblog/

The options for the Pens are drying up fast. It looks like we'll either have to give Hossa the $8 million per season that he wants, or overpay for stiffs like Cory Stillman or Markus Naslund. This is bordering on an absolute disaster of an offseason for the Pens.

I for one am glad we got something out of Malone/Roberts. Too bad we didn't get a 2008 draft pick. It was made pretty clear we had zero hope of signing them.

The fact that Malone is willing to sign with the Lightning after telling Columbus not to bother trading a draft pick suggests he really didn't want to play for Columbus.

Its a fact that because we were in the finals our players are more coveted. Honestly, Crosby & Malkin can make a lot of other players look really good---I love Malone---but the Penguins could not jusstify paying him that kind of $. Good for him that he got it, , but we couldn't give it to him. I hope we can resign some of our guys---but even if we can't someone will be there to take their places. Keep the core together, and we will be just fine. I have faith in Ray Shero.

X-Terminator

06-30-2008, 11:42 AM

Just to further expound on Malone's ridiculous contract, he is scheduled to make between $14-$16 million in the first 2 years of the deal. That's right, ladies and gents, Ryan Malone next season will make as much or nearly as much as:

...just to name a few. Now tell me, does Ryan Malone belong in the same class as those guys? I don't think so!

Also, good to hear that Ruutu wants to stay here, but of course, we've heard that song and dance before (hello Brooks and Hoss). I'll believe it when I see the announcement that he's signed a contract. Until then...empty words.

Lord Stiller

06-30-2008, 01:37 PM

anyone hear the rumors that the Pens are trying to get Gaborik?

wtf are they gonna trade to get him????????

pittsburghp8baller

06-30-2008, 04:54 PM

anyone hear the rumors that the Pens are trying to get Gaborik?

wtf are they gonna trade to get him????????

a crap load of prospects/draft picks and players too.

i saw this happening, not necessarly to us but i figured gaborik might eventually get traded. it is well known that gaborik does not like minnesota well at least the coach. his minutes was cut down due to the Gaborik 'unwillingness to play the system' .

i figured Minnesota might try and get people out of this instead of letting him walk and getting nothing for it. Buffalo learned the hard way (by letting Druy and Briere walk) that if you dont have depth and jus let your star(s) walk your gonna be in trouple. If Minnesota trades Gaborik, they will/could get a lot of young players for him. When healthy Gaborik is one of the best scorers in the NHL and may have the greatest acceleration of any in the NHL.

pittsburghp8baller

06-30-2008, 05:00 PM

oh yea, i would LOVE to get Gaborik. he is by far my favorite non-penguin in all of the NHL, he is the reason i started to follow the Wild on the Pens non-gamedays. if we can get him without giving up too much and know FOR SURE that we can get a deal done with him, i say lets go for it. if you thought Crosby/Hossa was good wait till you see Crosby/Gaboirk.

HometownGal

06-30-2008, 06:10 PM

I for one sure wouldn't mind Gaborik coming here - he's awesome, but I think we'd have to trade away the farm to get him. I haven't heard that rumor here in the Burgh just yet, but with Shero being the master of the seemingly impossible deal, nothing would really shock me. :hatsoff:

X-Terminator

06-30-2008, 08:42 PM

It's funny, but last night at work I was thinking about the possibility of the Pens going after Gaborik, and today, I read this rumor. I'd love to get him, but it's going to take a mint to pry him from Minnesota. It is indeed well known that Gaborik is not happy playing in Jacques Lemaire's defensive system, and has said that he'd like to come to the East and "play offense." He scored 42 goals and 83 points in that system last season - imagine the numbers he could put up playing with Crosby? And with his speed, he certainly would be able to keep up with Crosby - he's one of the fastest, if not the fastest, skaters in the league. The only knock on him is that he has been injury prone in his career, mainly with his groin. He is also a UFA after this season, which means the Pens will have to sign him to an extension or we may be right back where we are right now next summer. It would probably take Staal, another player and a 1st rounder to get him from the Wild. Shero pulled off the impossible by nabbing Hossa at the trade deadline - can he do it again?

pittsburghp8baller

06-30-2008, 10:28 PM

It's funny, but last night at work I was thinking about the possibility of the Pens going after Gaborik, and today, I read this rumor. I'd love to get him, but it's going to take a mint to pry him from Minnesota. It is indeed well known that Gaborik is not happy playing in Jacques Lemaire's defensive system, and has said that he'd like to come to the East and "play offense." He scored 42 goals and 83 points in that system last season - imagine the numbers he could put up playing with Crosby? And with his speed, he certainly would be able to keep up with Crosby - he's one of the fastest, if not the fastest, skaters in the league. The only knock on him is that he has been injury prone in his career, mainly with his groin. He is also a UFA after this season, which means the Pens will have to sign him to an extension or we may be right back where we are right now next summer. It would probably take Staal, another player and a 1st rounder to get him from the Wild. Shero pulled off the impossible by nabbing Hossa at the trade deadline - can he do it again?

it would actually make sense the wild asking for staal, he would fit perfectly in that scehme and could prob be a top 2 center their with Demetria likely parting. i dont think Shero would be thrilled about the idea of giving up staal but if kennedy and ryan stone step up and show they can be part of a shutdown line why not try and improve? i dont know, if we do it ill be happy and if we dont ill still be happy. Shero has never given me a reason to doubt me

HometownGal

07-01-2008, 10:17 AM

Shero pulled off the impossible by nabbing Hossa at the trade deadline - can he do it again?

Anything is possible with Shero at the helm. The guy has proven to be a mastermind at eeking out a deal at the eleventh hour. :thumbsup:

I'd hate to lose Staal, too, but to get a quality player like Gaborik, you have to give up an up and coming quality player and probably more.

I'm with pittsburghp8baller on this one. If the Pens do indeed pull off a deal for Gaborik, I'll be happy, but if they don't, I'm quite content keeping Staal and watching him only get better and better. :tt03:

According to TSN, the Pittsburgh Penguins should have star forward Evgeni Malkin locked up to a five-year contract as early as today.
Penguins GM Ray Shero and Malkin's agent, J.P. Barry, are finalizing details on a contract extension believed to be worth $8.7 million per season.

Malkin, 21, scored 47 goals and added 59 assists for 106 points in 82 games with the Penguins last season.

On a possibel free agent word- Brian Rolston rejected Tampa's Offer and is now officially a free agent

SteelersTilIDie

07-01-2008, 12:12 PM

malone is already gone to tampa bay and so is roberts

Lord Stiller

07-01-2008, 03:08 PM

pens sign Dman Mark Eaton for 2 yrs, 2 million

Pens also make Jagr an offer:
http://sportsnet.ca/hockey/2008/07/01/penguins_jagr/

i heard 2 years, 10 million

Counselor

07-01-2008, 03:24 PM

pens sign Dman Mark Eaton for 2 yrs, 2 million

Pens also make Jagr an offer:
http://sportsnet.ca/hockey/2008/07/01/penguins_jagr/

i heard 2 years, 10 million

The Jagr rumor will suprise me if its true. That's a pretty big risk.

SteelCityMan786

07-01-2008, 04:04 PM

The Jagr rumor will suprise me if its true. That's a pretty big risk.

Yeah, he hasn't really changed enough yet for me to want him back.

HometownGal

07-01-2008, 04:05 PM

pens sign Dman Mark Eaton for 2 yrs, 2 million

Pens also make Jagr an offer:
http://sportsnet.ca/hockey/2008/07/01/penguins_jagr/

i heard 2 years, 10 million

I love Eaton, but he has been injured most of the 2 years he has been here. I think the money they gave him could be better spent elsewhere.

As for Jagr - blech. $5 million per season for a guy who is not only despised by many Pens fans for the way he left here, but whose abilities are a shell of the player he used to be. I think this is an absolutely HORRIBLE move if it comes to fruition.

HometownGal

07-01-2008, 04:09 PM

We lost Ty Conklin, as well. I wish him only the best in Detroit - they are getting one helluva backup goaltender. He was instrumental in the Pens getting as far as they did this season. :drink:

DETROIT -- Veteran goalie Ty Conklin, who played 33 games for Pittsburgh last season, has agreed to terms on a one-year contract with the Stanley Cup champion Red Wings.

Mainly a back-up to Penguins Marc-Andre Fluery last season, Conklin posted a respectable 18-8-5 record with two shutouts, and a 2.51 goals-against average and a .923 save percentage.

Conklin, 32, will challenge Jimmy Howard in training camp for the back-up role to Red Wings starter Chris Osgood. In 109 career regular-season games, Conklin, a native of Anchorage, Alaska, has compiled a 48-32-12 record with a 2.60 GAA and .909 save percentage.

Conklin spent parts of three seasons with the Edmonton Oilers before splitting the 2006-07 season between Buffalo and Columbus.

On Nov 26, 2003, Conklin got his only career start against the Red Wings. Then with the Oilers, Conklin surrendered five goals, including power-play goals to Steve Yzerman, Brendan Shanahan and Brett Hull, in a 7-1 loss to the Wings at Joe Louis Arena.

The Duke

07-01-2008, 04:23 PM

hmm....conklin was a nice backup, I'll miss him. but I wish him only the best with the wings.

pittsburghp8baller

07-01-2008, 04:32 PM

very active day so far, huet to chicago; kolzig to tampa maybe to start. mats sundin offered a two year 20 million dollar contract from vancouver.

this is where im keeping track of everything going on, i jus keep it on my computer and refresh it as im passing the computer

pittsburghp8baller

07-01-2008, 04:35 PM

TSN reports that the Penguins sign Eric Godard to a three year deal. he will be filling the role of George Laraque this upcoming season

X-Terminator

07-01-2008, 05:18 PM

I love Eaton, but he has been injured most of the 2 years he has been here. I think the money they gave him could be better spent elsewhere.

As for Jagr - blech. $5 million per season for a guy who is not only despised by many Pens fans for the way he left here, but whose abilities are a shell of the player he used to be. I think this is an absolutely HORRIBLE move if it comes to fruition.

Well Jagr apparently is very close to signing with the Pens - ugh. So much for the tight-knit locker room we've enjoyed over the past 2 seasons, because he's sure to mess things up with his whiny, prima donna attitude. He is the LAST person I wanted to see back on this team, and for $5 million - ridiculous. I'd rather have Brian Rolston or Hossa obviously, but it looks as if both of them are about to hit the jackpot with other teams. I don't know if I can cheer for him if he does come back, and I don't know if many of those fans who despise him as much or more than I do will be able to as well.

TSN reports that the Penguins sign Eric Godard to a three year deal. he will be filling the role of George Laraque this upcoming season

Can I call 'em or what? Godard is a excellent replacement for Laraque, and I guarantee he will be an instant fan favorite.

Some of his more notable fights:

vs. Derek Boogaard '06-'07

e8pKoQ2vRsY

vs. Brian McGrattan '05-'06

F5Cw43uqj2g

vs. Georges Laraque '05-'06

_vktnDXqJXs

vs. D.J. King, last season:

ZAj2bmNguFA

HometownGal

07-01-2008, 05:20 PM

TSN reports that the Penguins sign Eric Godard to a three year deal. he will be filling the role of George Laraque this upcoming season

I'd much rather the Pens have kept Laraque. Godard isn't all that impressive other than taking up a regular residence in the sin bin.

http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/players/3082

HometownGal

07-01-2008, 05:26 PM

Malkin is ours for another 5 years! :thumbsup::tt03::drink:

http://kdka.com/sports/Penguins.Dupuis.Malkin.2.761218.html

Pens Make Deal With Malkin, Dupuis Re-Signs

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) ― The Penguins appear to have their biggest two stars under contract. Sources tell KDKA Sports, the Pens and Evgeni Malkin have agreed to a 5-year contract.

The new contract will kick in for the 2009-2010 season, and it's believed to be around the same deal Sidney Crosby signed last year for $8.7 million dollars per season.

Since Malkin has one more year left on his entry-level contract, this new extension will keep him with the Penguins for the next 6 years.

The framework of the deal is apparently in place and it will likely be officially announced in the next couple of days once the paperwork is completed.

Also today, the Penguins re-signed one of their free agent forwards. Pascal Dupuis agreed to a 3-year contract that pays him $1.4 million per season.

HometownGal

07-01-2008, 05:31 PM

No way in HELL Fatsomir plays second fiddle to Sid or anyone else. I just don't see him signing with the Pens and if he does, Shero will live to regret it as he will destroy the comraderie in that locker room. $10 million for an almost 36 year old has been? :doh::doh: If they sign His Chubbiness, I promise not to boo him anymore, but I won't be at all happy about it.

http://kdka.com/sports/Jaromir.Jagr.Penguins.2.761449.html

Report: Pens Make Offer To Jaromir Jagr
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) ― If the Pens can't come to terms with Marian Hossa, they're making plans for a second option.

Pittsburgh Sports Insider has learned that Ray Shero has made a contract offer to former Pens captain Jaromir Jagr.

The former MVP would be paired with Pens captain Sidney Crosby.

X-Terminator

07-01-2008, 05:42 PM

I'd much rather the Pens have kept Laraque. Godard isn't all that impressive other than taking up a regular residence in the sin bin.

http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/players/3082

Trust me when I tell you, your tune will change 5 games into this season, and especially after he busts some Flyers' heads. Godard may not be as skilled as Laraque hockey-wise, but he is everything you want in an enforcer and is one of the better HW fighters in the league. If you can TKO Derek Boogaard, who's a 6'7", 265 lb. monster, you're pretty damn good.

Malkin is ours for another 5 years! :thumbsup::tt03::drink:

http://kdka.com/sports/Penguins.Dupuis.Malkin.2.761218.html

Pens Make Deal With Malkin, Dupuis Re-Signs

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) ― The Penguins appear to have their biggest two stars under contract. Sources tell KDKA Sports, the Pens and Evgeni Malkin have agreed to a 5-year contract.

The new contract will kick in for the 2009-2010 season, and it's believed to be around the same deal Sidney Crosby signed last year for $8.7 million dollars per season.

Since Malkin has one more year left on his entry-level contract, this new extension will keep him with the Penguins for the next 6 years.

The framework of the deal is apparently in place and it will likely be officially announced in the next couple of days once the paperwork is completed.

Also today, the Penguins re-signed one of their free agent forwards. Pascal Dupuis agreed to a 3-year contract that pays him $1.4 million per season.

AWESOME!!!! :tt03::thumbsup::drink: Now all of those idiots who predicted that the Pens would trade Malkin or that he'd take the Russian team's offer can offcially stick it where the sun don't shine! Geno made it clear that he wanted to stay, and he made it happen. Great to see this deal done!

No way in HELL Fatsomir plays second fiddle to Sid or anyone else. I just don't see him signing with the Pens and if he does, Shero will live to regret it as he will destroy the comraderie in that locker room. $10 million for an almost 36 year old has been? :doh::doh: If they sign His Chubbiness, I promise not to boo him anymore, but I won't be at all happy about it.

http://kdka.com/sports/Jaromir.Jagr.Penguins.2.761449.html

Report: Pens Make Offer To Jaromir Jagr
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) ― If the Pens can't come to terms with Marian Hossa, they're making plans for a second option.

Pittsburgh Sports Insider has learned that Ray Shero has made a contract offer to former Pens captain Jaromir Jagr.

The former MVP would be paired with Pens captain Sidney Crosby.

I don't see it happening either, and why Shero would take the chance of destroying the locker room by bringing him back is beyond me. I won't boo him anymore either if he signs, but he'll only get a golf clap from me if he scores...if that.

pittsburghp8baller

07-01-2008, 05:47 PM

I'd much rather the Pens have kept Laraque. Godard isn't all that impressive other than taking up a regular residence in the sin bin.

http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/players/3082

well he only played 21 games last season but still logged 91 PIM so thats a good average for a enforcer (4+ per penalty)

Godard doesnt do as much as laraque did. but the more involved laraque got with other aspects of the game the more he went away from his main duty. Godard will give you one thing- meat hooks

As For the Jagr possible signing. Im exciting about him possibly signing with us. I still he has enough left to be a great winger along side Crosby, it doesnt take much.

Breaking New as I type Chicago Blackhawks sign Defenseman Brian Campbell to a 8 year 56.8 million dollar contract.

X-Terminator

07-01-2008, 05:49 PM

In other news:

- Hossa is apparently close to signing with the OILERS of all teams. They've offered him $9 million US per season.

- Toronto signed nondescript defenseman Jeff Finger to a 4 year, $14 million contract. A big contract like that for a 4th defenseman who's already 29 years old and has exactly ONE year of NHL experience. That pretty much guarantees that Orpik won't be back, because if this guy gets $3.5 million, Orpik will probably get $5 million. Thanks Toronto, you bunch of assholes!

- Darcy Tucker is officially out of the Eastern Conference, signing a deal with the Avs...which of course will make me hate them even more.

- Brian Campbell just signed an 8-year, $56.8 million deal with the Blackhawks. Now if Campbell is worth $7.1 million...and he ain't...how much do you think Sergei Gonchar would get if he were on the open market?

X-Terminator

07-01-2008, 05:51 PM

well he only played 21 games last season but still logged 91 PIM so thats a good average for a enforcer (4+ per penalty)

Godard doesnt do as much as laraque did. but the more involved laraque got with other aspects of the game the more he went away from his main duty. Godard will give you one thing- meat hooks

As For the Jagr possible signing. Im exciting about him possibly signing with us. I still he has enough left to be a great winger along side Crosby, it doesnt take much.

Breaking New as I type Chicago Blackhawks sign Defenseman Brian Campbell to a 8 year 56.8 million dollar contract.

No he didn't - if you look at HTG's link, Godard played 74 games and had 171 PIMs last season. He also had 17 FMs.

HometownGal

07-01-2008, 05:53 PM

As For the Jagr possible signing. Im exciting about him possibly signing with us. I still he has enough left to be a great winger along side Crosby, it doesnt take much.

I respectfully disagree about Jagr "having enough left to be a great winger" no matter who he is trio'd with. Sid doesn't need a lazy cherry picker on his line - he needs a hard worker who will go into the corners and dig out a puck and be able to forecheck, backcheck and be the consummate teamer. Jagr doesn't fit that description in any way, shape or form. If he didn't want to play 2nd fiddle to Mario who, imho, is the greatest player to ever play the game, there is no way on God's good earth he will be content with that role playing alongside the best modern era hockey player in the world.

I'm going to take the wait and see approach with Godard. :thumbsup:

X-Terminator

07-01-2008, 06:31 PM

Rolston is back with the Devils - 4 years, $20 million. Good signing for them as they needed someone - ANYONE - who could put the puck in the net. Damn...I would SO much have rather had him than the possibility of settling for McChubbs.

Lord Stiller

07-01-2008, 07:03 PM

Crosby + Jagr + a tree = the best line in hockey

lets get him

pittsburghp8baller

07-01-2008, 07:41 PM

No he didn't - if you look at HTG's link, Godard played 74 games and had 171 PIMs last season. He also had 17 FMs.

oh i guess i looked at it wrong, i was looking at the stats before i saw HTG link, and i could of swore that it said 21 games played. i knew he was on top of fights i guess i didnt put two and two together

pittsburghp8baller

07-01-2008, 07:42 PM

Rolston is back with the Devils - 4 years, $20 million. Good signing for them as they needed someone - ANYONE - who could put the puck in the net. Damn...I would SO much have rather had him than the possibility of settling for McChubbs.

agreed. i would 1000x rather have that blazing slap shot than jagr

SteelCityMan786

07-01-2008, 07:42 PM

In other news:

- Hossa is apparently close to signing with the OILERS of all teams. They've offered him $9 million US per season.

- Toronto signed nondescript defenseman Jeff Finger to a 4 year, $14 million contract. A big contract like that for a 4th defenseman who's already 29 years old and has exactly ONE year of NHL experience. That pretty much guarantees that Orpik won't be back, because if this guy gets $3.5 million, Orpik will probably get $5 million. Thanks Toronto, you bunch of assholes!

- Darcy Tucker is officially out of the Eastern Conference, signing a deal with the Avs...which of course will make me hate them even more.

- Brian Campbell just signed an 8-year, $56.8 million deal with the Blackhawks. Now if Campbell is worth $7.1 million...and he ain't...how much do you think Sergei Gonchar would get if he were on the open market?

-HOSSA SIGNING WITH THE OILERS? Is he going stupid? Hossa would not have a chance to hoist the cup with the Oilers. Who do they really have that could help put them over the top? Hossa on the other hand has guys like Crosby, Malkin, Staal, and Fleury he could play beside as well as the likes of Sykora and his former teammate Dupuis from his days in Atlanta. He has a lot of parts with him in Pittsburgh that he could easily raise the stanley cup.

SteelCityMan786

07-01-2008, 07:46 PM

What else is left on the RW market. The only guy that I'd like to see along with Hossa in a Penguins Uniform is probably Ryder. His Pay Day will be the only issue.

Darcy Tucker-Signed with the Avalanche, 2 years, $4.5 million
Brian Rolston-Signed with the Devils, 4 years, $20 million
Radim Vrbata-Signed with the Lightning, 3 years, $9 million
Matt Bradley-Re-signed with the Capitals, 3 years, $3 million
Wade Belak-Re-signed with Florida, 2 years.
Adam Hall-Signed with the Lightning, 3 years, $1.8 million
Eric Godard-Signed with the Penguins, 3 years

Moves done by other UFAs
Adam Foote-Resigned with Colorado for 2 years
Mattis Norstrom-Retired
Brad Stuart-Re-signed with the Red Wings, 4 years, $14 million
Aaron Ward-Re-signed with the Bruins, 2 years, $5 million
Michal Rozsival-Re-signed with the Rangers, 4 years, $20 million
Brian Campbell-Signed with the Blackhawks, 8 years, $56.8 million
Bryce Salvador-Re-signed with the Devils, 4 years, $11.6 million
Glen Wesley-Retired
John-Michael Liles-Re-signed with Colorado, 4 years, $16 million
Mike Commodore-Signed with the Blue Jackets, 5 years, $18.75 million
Andreas Lilja-Re-signed with the Wings, 2 years, $2.5 million
Kurt Sauer-Signed with the Coyotes, 4 years, $7 million
Dan Jancevski-Re-signed with the Stars, 2 years
Sheldon Brookbank-Re-signed with the Devils
Mike Mottau-Re-signed with the Devils
Matt Carkner-Re-signed with the Senators for 2 years

pittsburghp8baller

07-01-2008, 08:02 PM

-HOSSA SIGNING WITH THE OILERS? Is he going stupid? Hossa would not have a chance to hoist the cup with the Oilers. Who do they really have that could help put them over the top? Hossa on the other hand has guys like Crosby, Malkin, Staal, and Fleury he could play beside as well as the likes of Sykora and his former teammate Dupuis from his days in Atlanta. He has a lot of parts with him in Pittsburgh that he could easily raise the stanley cup.

Oilers actually have a very young and promising team. Sam Gagner was able to hang around the NHL for a whole season, something not common with 18 year olds. they got people like Shawn Horcoff, Andrew Cogliano, Dustin Penner, Erik Cole, Gilbert Brule and with people like Sheldon Souray, Lubomir Visnovksy up and comers Tom Gilbert and Matt Greene on Defense. and veterans goaltenders Dwayne Roloson and Mathieu Garon (im not sure of their contract status one or both might actually be free agents). Someone like Hossa might be the last part they need to put them over the edge.

And they only finished 3 spots out of a playoff spot

SteelCityMan786

07-01-2008, 08:03 PM

Oilers actually have a very young and promising team. Sam Gagner was able to hang around the NHL for a whole season, something not common with 18 year olds. they got people like Shawn Horcoff, Andrew Cogliano, Dustin Penner, Erik Cole, Gilbert Brule and with people like Sheldon Souray, Lubomir Visnovksy up and comers Tom Gilbert and Matt Greene on Defense. and veterans goaltenders Dwayne Roloson and Mathieu Garon (im not sure of their contract status one or both might actually be free agents). Someone like Hossa might be the last part they need to put them over the edge.

And they only finished 3 spots out of a playoff spot

At most though, I only see that as a, he will help them make the playoffs, but in reality, what more will it do?

pittsburghp8baller

07-01-2008, 08:06 PM

At most though, I only see that as a, he will help them make the playoffs, but in reality, what more will it do?

Well if he would rather go some where for the money and not the fact that he will be on a team that came within two wins of the Stanley Cup i really dont want that kind of player on my team

SteelCityMan786

07-01-2008, 08:13 PM

Well if he would rather go some where for the money and not the fact that he will be on a team that came within two wins of the Stanley Cup i really dont want that kind of player on my team

If he chooses to go that way, Oh well, it's his loss.

X-Terminator

07-02-2008, 01:07 AM

Oilers actually have a very young and promising team. Sam Gagner was able to hang around the NHL for a whole season, something not common with 18 year olds. they got people like Shawn Horcoff, Andrew Cogliano, Dustin Penner, Erik Cole, Gilbert Brule and with people like Sheldon Souray, Lubomir Visnovksy up and comers Tom Gilbert and Matt Greene on Defense. and veterans goaltenders Dwayne Roloson and Mathieu Garon (im not sure of their contract status one or both might actually be free agents). Someone like Hossa might be the last part they need to put them over the edge.

And they only finished 3 spots out of a playoff spot

Matt Greene was involved in the trade that brought Visnovsky to Edmonton. But someone else on that list will have to go, because with the moves they made today, they're at about a $49 million payroll going into next season. And since they've offered Hossa an OPEN contract (meaning he can pretty much name his own price), they are going to be over the cap. They have until September to get under it, so look for one of the high-priced vets (possibly Roloson or Souray) to be headed out of town if and when he signs. I do agree though - this looks like a move purely for money on Hossa's part, because despite Edmonton being an up-and-coming team, they are a LONG way away from being a Stanley Cup contender - which apparently doesn't really matter to him after all, his comments after the SCF notwithstanding.

Lord Stiller

07-02-2008, 08:33 AM

today is a big day

Orpik and Hossa should sign today

after seeing what all the other dmen got, Orpik will get a deal around 5 years, 22 million atleast

pittsburghp8baller

07-02-2008, 09:02 AM

Matt Greene was involved in the trade that brought Visnovsky to Edmonton

i dont know whats goin on with me, major mind cramps lately.

pittsburghp8baller

07-02-2008, 12:58 PM

Marian Hossa Signs One Of the Stanley Cup teams

only thing it was the Red Wings!!

TFP has learned that the Detroit Red Wings have signed unrestricted free agent forward Marian Hossa to a one-year contract worth $7.4 million.
Hossa was considering four other offers before accepting a deal with the Wings.

Hossa, 29, scored 29 goals and added 37 assists for 66 points in 72 games last season between the Atlanta Thrahsers and the Pittsburgh Penguins.

In 701 career NHL games, Hossa has accumulated 299 goals and 349 assists for 648 points.

The Edmonton Oilers and Montreal Canadiens were also pressing hard for Hossa, who decided to sign with Detroit.
Boston, the NY Rangers, Vancouver and Chicago also showed significant interest, but backed out of the race yesterday.

http://thefourthperiod.com/news/det080702.html

Didnt see that one coming. I didnt hear anywhere that the red wings were one of the teams going after Hossa

Lord Stiller

07-02-2008, 01:02 PM

what a d-bag

oh well, lets sign Orpik and Jagr

X-Terminator

07-02-2008, 01:10 PM

He could have had that $7.4 million in a long-term deal and multiple shots at the Cup, but chose 1 year in Detroit. I will be laughing SO hard when the Wings DON'T win the Cup next season, and I will pray that it's the Penguins that keep him from winning it. And the Penguins better not even think about dialing that jackass' number when the season's over. I don't want him back here. F him.

And the worst thing about this is that it pretty much means that McChubbs will be donning the black and gold once again. I think I'm going to throw up.

Edman

07-02-2008, 01:19 PM

My heart has been ripped out and stomped upon.

Hossa and Conklin go to Detroit. Of all teams. As if they don't have enough solid players as it is. This is just a real kick in the nuts and insult to injury after losing the Finals to them this year.

Counselor

07-02-2008, 01:51 PM

My heart has been ripped out and stomped upon.

Hossa and Conklin go to Detroit. Of all teams. As if they don't have enough solid players as it is. This is just a real kick in the nuts and insult to injury after losing the Finals to them this year.

Ya know--I totally get Conklin's choice---he has a shot at winning the starting job over Osgood---Osgood just isn't that good! Conklin would never start with MAF around.

But Hossa? Ugh. This is hard to swallow. He clearly doesn't think we're getting back to the cup in the near future---and with all the free agents running for the hills---he's not the only one.

I now hope and pray that the Red Wings crash and burn like the patriots in the superbowl.

X-Terminator

07-02-2008, 01:57 PM

Ya know--I totally get Conklin's choice---he has a shot at winning the starting job over Osgood---Osgood just isn't that good! Conklin would never start with MAF around.

But Hossa? Ugh. This is hard to swallow. He clearly doesn't think we're getting back to the cup in the near future---and with all the free agents running for the hills---he's not the only one.

I now hope and pray that the Red Wings crash and burn like the patriots in the superbowl.

It's his fault those free agents are running for the hills, because the Pens made him their top priority, only to have him turn around and give them the finger. And the final offer was 7 years, $50 million - only slightly less than what he's getting from Detroit this year and the 7 years was requested by his AGENT. The Pens are disappointed and pissed, and rightfully so, because they bent over backward to try to get a deal done. Now we're going to have to overpay for a 2nd tier FA just so we can have a warm body to play on Sid's line.

I hope the Wings crash and burn, and I hope Hossa blows out his knee. I never wish injury on anyone, but this pissed me off SO much.

GBMelBlount

07-02-2008, 02:05 PM

He could have had that $7.4 million in a long-term deal and multiple shots at the Cup, but chose 1 year in Detroit. I will be laughing SO hard when the Wings DON'T win the Cup next season, and I will pray that it's the Penguins that keep him from winning it. And the Penguins better not even think about dialing that jackass' number when the season's over. I don't want him back here. F him.

Someone just told me this. Wow. I'm not a penguin fanatic but this is how I feel as well.

KeiselPower99

07-02-2008, 02:11 PM

I dont see why a team like Colorado wouldnt go after Conklin. They lost Theodore to the Caps. And now all they had left was Budaj.

Lord Stiller

07-02-2008, 02:15 PM

im so pissed

who the F are we going to play on wing in our top 2 lines besides Sykora?

this sucks!

Lord Stiller

07-02-2008, 02:43 PM

Malkin signed his extension today

5 yrs at 8.7 per which starts after next season

:tt03::tt03::tt03::tt03::tt03:

F Hossa

Edman

07-02-2008, 03:40 PM

With the loss of all these players. It makes me wonder what Shero will do. There's nobody on the Pens that stand out besides Sid, Malkin, Fleury, and Staal.

I hope this Godard guy we signed turns out to be just decent.

Oh, and the the hell with Hossa and the whole Red Wings organization.

Counselor

07-02-2008, 03:43 PM

Now Ruutu is going to Ottawa.

We have no wingers. None. I know Crosby, Malkin, Staal and Fleury are the core---but we can't play 3 on 5 and expect to win. Crosby has no linemate that can actually score.

pittsburghp8baller

07-02-2008, 04:01 PM

With the loss of all these players. It makes me wonder what Shero will do. There's nobody on the Pens that stand out besides Sid, Malkin, Fleury, and Staal.

I hope this Godard guy we signed turns out to be just decent.

Oh, and the the hell with Hossa and the whole Red Wings organization.

Godard will only give you one thing, meat hooks. he averaged only 4:42 of ice time, played 71 games and still managed 171 PIM.

I think we are gonna have to pursue hard for Kristian Huselius, he may be our last hope to get a scoring winger who can play with crosby or malkin. other than that we are gonna have to rely on some of our AHL players to step up big

Counselor

07-02-2008, 04:14 PM

Godard will only give you one thing, meat hooks. he averaged only 4:42 of ice time, played 71 games and still managed 171 PIM.

Yeah, Goddard is just a cheaper, less-talented version of Laraque. He will probably actually fight more---but that's about it.

pittsburghp8baller

07-02-2008, 05:21 PM

Pens resign Brooks Orpik to a 6 year 22.5 million dollar
http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=367608

Also, Rangers are getting better
they traded Tyutin and Backman to Columbus for Nikolai Zherdev and Dan Fritsche

Every1 in the Atlantic are adding people and we havent done much to keep up

X-Terminator

07-02-2008, 08:06 PM

HTG is going to be pissed that Ruutu is gone, but I did warn her that it might happen. Apparently he left because the Pens didn't want to add the 3rd year that Ottawa did. It certainly wasn't the money - he only got $1.3 million per year. Word on the street is that they're looking at Matt Cooke as his replacement - he's just as big of a pain in the ass as Ruutu and every bit as dirty.

Ray Shero had better be working his ass off trying to get a couple of wingers in here who can put the puck in the net. In addition to McChubbs, they are also looking at Naslund and Demitra, and from what I understand they will have to be a package deal. I am really afraid of what this team is going to look like going into next season. At least we kept Orpik and got Malkin's deal finalized, so there has been SOME good news today.

TackleMeBen

07-02-2008, 09:20 PM

i cant believe the red wings signed hossa... a friend of mine called me today and told me and i was like no you are joking.